Description
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful homemade loaf infused with a blend of dried Italian herbs and a delightful combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly golden with a crispy crust and soft interior, this bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, sandwiches, or can be savored on its own with olive oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
Wet Ingredients
- 1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Others
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water (110°F), sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, dried Italian herbs, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Stir thoroughly until a sticky dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.
- First Proofing: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the risen dough gently to release trapped air. Shape the dough into a loaf or transfer it to a greased bread pan. Cover again and allow it to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan filled with water at the bottom of the oven to create steam, which helps develop a crisp crust.
- Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should be between 200°F and 210°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool. Let it cool completely or serve warm. Enjoy as a complement to your meals or a savory snack.
Notes
- For an enhanced herbal aroma, increase the amount of dried herbs or experiment with your favorite cheese blends.
- This bread pairs excellently with Italian dishes like pasta or as a base for sandwiches.
- Serving with extra virgin olive oil makes for a simple and delicious snack.
- If you prefer a softer crust, consider covering the bread with foil halfway through baking.
Keywords: Italian bread, cheese bread, herb bread, homemade bread, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian herbs, baking bread