Irresistible Italian Herb Cheese Bread Recipe to Savor

The aroma of Italian Herb Cheese Bread wafts through the air, teasing your senses with promises of warmth and comfort. Imagine tearing into a freshly baked loaf, its crust crackling beneath your fingers, revealing gooey cheese and fragrant herbs inside. It’s a slice of heaven that turns any ordinary meal into a celebration.

Every time I make this delightful bread, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and love melded with the scent of freshly baked goods. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this Italian Herb Cheese Bread is the perfect companion for any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients for Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the bread’s structure; you can also mix in whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

• Instant Yeast: This magical ingredient helps the dough rise quickly without needing proofing time.

• Warm Water: Use water around 110°F (43°C) to awaken the yeast and kickstart fermentation.

• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and richness; opt for extra virgin for an authentic flavor boost.

• Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works wonders here; choose your favorite melty variety!

• Dried Italian Herbs: Think oregano, basil, and thyme—these herbs elevate the essence of Italy in every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, find a mixing bowl large enough to accommodate all that doughy goodness.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt. Remember—no one likes a bland bread!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until it forms a shaggy dough that looks like it might have just stumbled out of bed.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It’s like giving your dough a mini workout—feel free to channel your inner baker!

Step 5: Add Cheese

Flatten the dough slightly before sprinkling half of the shredded cheese on top. Fold it over itself like you’re tucking in an unruly child at bedtime. Knead again until well incorporated.

Step 6: Let It Rise

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about an hour. This is when you can do some serious daydreaming about how amazing this bread will taste!

Transfer to a greased loaf pan or shape into rolls if you’re feeling fancy. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. Transfer to plates and enjoy slices warm or toasted with butter for an unbeatable treat!

And there you have it! A delightful journey through the art of making Italian Herb Cheese Bread that’s sure to spread smiles (and crumbs) around your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve that golden crust and gooey cheese center, start by mixing your dough ingredients thoroughly. Allow it to rise before folding in the herbs and cheese. Finally, bake until perfectly golden while you sip on a lovely glass of wine—because why not?

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preference or what you have in your pantry. Add some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist or use different cheeses like gouda or feta to create your own cheesy masterpiece!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Italian Herb Cheese Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture.

Sharing this recipe always reminds me of the time I made it for my best friend’s birthday. The kitchen filled with heavenly smells, and we devoured the entire loaf before dinner even started!

FAQs

What is Italian Herb Cheese Bread?

Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a deliciously soft and flavorful bread infused with a blend of Italian herbs and gooey cheese. The combination of ingredients like garlic, basil, oregano, and mozzarella creates a rich taste that complements various dishes. This bread is perfect for serving alongside pasta, soups, or as an appetizer. It’s simple to make at home and will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas.

How do you store Italian Herb Cheese Bread?

To keep your Italian Herb Cheese Bread fresh, allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. You can store it at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing slices in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Can I use different cheeses in Italian Herb Cheese Bread?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for mozzarella, you can experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste. Cheddar adds sharpness, while feta introduces a tangy flavor. For a gourmet touch, try using gouda or fontina. Mixing different cheeses enhances the bread’s richness and allows you to customize it according to your preferences.

How do you serve Italian Herb Cheese Bread?

Italian Herb Cheese Bread is versatile and pairs well with many meals. Serve it warm as an appetizer with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It also makes a fantastic side for soups and salads. For a delightful twist, use it for sandwiches by adding your favorite fillings between slices of this flavorful bread. It’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Conclusion for Italian Herb Cheese Bread

In summary, Italian Herb Cheese Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Its unique blend of herbs and cheese elevates any meal, making it perfect for various occasions. Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delightful bread beyond mealtime. Whether served warm as an appetizer or used in sandwiches, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Bake your own Italian Herb Cheese Bread today and savor the delightful flavors!

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Italian Herb Cheese Bread

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Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a warm, inviting loaf that fills your kitchen with the delightful aromas of Italian herbs and gooey cheese. This easy-to-make bread features a golden crust and tender interior, making it the perfect side for any meal or a delicious standalone treat. Whether enjoyed with soups or as a sandwich base, this savory bread will elevate any occasion.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, dried herbs, and salt.
3. Add warm water and olive oil; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Flatten the dough, sprinkle half of the cheese on top, fold over, and knead again to incorporate.
6. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Shape into a loaf or rolls, place in greased pans, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for varied flavors. Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for additional taste dimensions. Ensure proper kneading to develop gluten for better rise.