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italian herbs and cheese bread

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Short Description: This homemade Italian herbs and cheese bread is filled with the rich flavors of aromatic herbs and gooey cheese. Perfectly baked with a crispy crust, it's a delightful addition to any meal or a tasty snack on its own.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • List of Ingredients:
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1¾ cups warm water about 110°F
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra flour for dusting

Method
 

  1. Step-by-Step Guide:
  2. Prepare the Dough:
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  4. Add the flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  5. Knead the Dough:
  6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
  7. Proof the Dough:
  8. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  9. Shape the Bread:
  10. Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf or place it in a greased bread pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  11. Preheat the Oven:
  12. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.
  13. Bake the Bread:
  14. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach 200-210°F.
  15. Cool and Serve:
  16. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!

Notes

Additional Notes:
For a more intense flavor, feel free to add more herbs or experiment with different cheese combinations.
This bread pairs beautifully with pasta, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed with olive oil as a simple snack.