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.
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
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- 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.
- Proof the Dough:
- 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.
- Shape the Bread:
- 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.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.
- Bake the Bread:
- 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.
- Cool and Serve:
- 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.
This bread pairs beautifully with pasta, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed with olive oil as a simple snack.