Description
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a soft, aromatic loaf bursting with savory herbs and melted cheese. Perfect for sandwiches, soups, or enjoyed on its own, it’s a flavorful and satisfying homemade bread.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning blend (or mix of dried basil, oregano, parsley, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup warm water or milk (about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Add warm water and olive oil. Stir to form a rough dough.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic.
- Fold in most of the shredded cheese during the last minute of kneading.
- Shape dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf or boule, and place in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
- Brush top with oil, sprinkle remaining cheese and herbs on top, then cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Bread flour yields a chewier texture, but all-purpose works for a softer crumb.
- Fresh herbs can be used—use three times the amount of dried.
- Grease or line pan well to prevent cheese from sticking.
- Shape into rolls instead of a loaf for individual portions.
- Brush with garlic butter halfway through baking for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
