Name: Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: Homemade Flavorful Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 grams); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Extra herbs or cheese for topping

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: Homemade Flavorful Perfection

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread combines the comfort of freshly baked bread with the irresistible flavors of Italy. The dough is lightly seasoned with fragrant herbs, then filled with melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan. This creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether served as a side with a hearty soup or enjoyed as a snack with a drizzle of olive oil, this bread is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s easy to make and will fill your kitchen with the most delightful aromas!

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour (360 grams)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional:

Extra herbs or cheese for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: Homemade Flavorful Perfection

Directions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, and thyme. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

2. Activate Yeast:

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water (around 110°F/45°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and activates.

3. Form the Dough:

Add the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Incorporate Cheese:

Once the dough is kneaded, gently fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Knead again briefly to incorporate the cheese evenly throughout the dough.

5. First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

6. Shape and Second Rise:

Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

7. Bake:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Serve:

Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. For extra flavor, brush the top with butter and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Rise time: 90 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 10–12 slices

Variations

Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs available, triple the amount for a more vibrant flavor.
Gooey Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for a more gooey texture inside the bread.
Bread Machine: If using a bread machine, simply use the dough setting and add the cheese when prompted by the machine (usually during the beep or the last kneading cycle).
Add-ins: Try adding some sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted garlic to the dough for an extra flavor boost.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bread in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices of bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make this bread entirely by hand. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Just make sure to adjust the quantities based on the cheese’s strength and moisture.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture. If using whole wheat flour, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.

Can I add herbs and spices to the dough?

Absolutely! You can add more herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.

How do I make this bread extra cheesy?

For an extra cheesy loaf, you can sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top before baking. You can also fold some into the dough along with the other cheese.

Conclusion

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s served alongside a hearty soup, enjoyed with pasta, or simply toasted with a bit of butter. The aromatic herbs and melty cheese inside the bread create a delightful, savory treat that everyone will love. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your bread-baking repertoire. Enjoy this homemade masterpiece fresh from the oven for the ultimate comfort food experience!