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+ servings
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Homemade Italian Herb and Cheese Bread for Cozy Evenings

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a customizable, crowd-pleasing choice perfect for cozy evenings.
Prep Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 packet active dry yeast check for freshness
  • 1 cup warm water aim for about 110°F (43°C)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour can be substituted with a gluten-free blend
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon sugar feeds the yeast
For the Flavor
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning feel free to use fresh herbs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese experiment with different cheeses
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese substitute with Pecorino Romano if desired
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley brightens the loaf
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a bolder taste use fresh garlic

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Activate Yeast: Combine 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 cup of warm water in a small bowl. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Pour in yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. First Rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for about 1 hour until doubled.
  4. Prepare Topping: Mix 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in a small bowl.
  5. Shape Dough: Punch down risen dough, divide into two portions, and shape into loaves. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second Rise: Cover shaped loaves and let rise for 30-45 minutes in a warm spot until puffy.
  7. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Add Topping and Bake: Brush loaves with olive oil, sprinkle topping mixture, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Cool & Serve: Transfer to a wire rack to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

This bread pairs well with soups and dips, making it a great addition to any meal.

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