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Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Irresistible Italian Herb and Cheese Bread for Cozy Nights

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a versatile and easy recipe perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour can substitute with bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
  • 1 cup Warm Water 110°F/45°C
  • 2 tablespoons Sugar honey works as a substitute
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil vegetable oil makes a suitable alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Salt don't skip for the best taste
For the Flavor Boost
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning fresh herbs can elevate flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder substituting with fresh garlic adds a nice zing
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese can swap for lower-fat versions
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese feel free to omit for a lighter bread
For Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley for garnish, optional
  • 2 tablespoons Melted Butter use olive oil for a dairy-free option

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Loaf Pan
  • Oven
  • Whisk
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water (110°F/45°C) and sugar, stirring gently until sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning.
  3. Once your yeast is activated, pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough gently and knead in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly mixed.
  7. Shape the cheese-infused dough into a loaf, place in a greased loaf pan, cover with a towel, and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  8. During the last 10 minutes of the second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Brush the loaf with melted butter and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. After baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 6gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This bread pairs well with olive oil or as a side for pasta and soup.

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