Description
This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Soft, flavorful, and loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this homemade bread features fragrant Italian herbs and garlic powder for an irresistible taste. It requires simple ingredients and uses classic baking techniques for a delicious, cheesy loaf that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water at 110°F (43°C) with sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until evenly combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead for 5 minutes at medium speed.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out into a rectangular shape on a lightly floured surface. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the dough.
- Roll and transfer: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, encasing the cheese inside. Place the dough seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes until it puffs up noticeably.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown color and the loaf sounds hollow when gently tapped.
- Cool and enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or slice warm for immediate serving.
Notes
- Make sure the water is at the correct temperature (110°F/43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading is essential for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness.
- You can substitute Italian seasoning with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if preferred.
- For extra flavor, brush the top of the loaf with olive oil or melted butter before baking.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian herb bread, cheese bread, mozzarella bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe
