Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread (Print Version)
Aromatic herbs and gooey cheese combine in this soft, golden loaf that makes your kitchen smell like an Italian bakery!
# Ingredients:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 -
3½ cups all-purpose flour
02 -
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
03 -
1 tablespoon sugar
04 -
1½ teaspoons salt
→ Wet Ingredients
05 -
1 cup warm water (43°C/110°F)
06 -
3 tablespoons olive oil
07 -
4 tablespoons softened butter
→ Flavorings
08 -
3 cloves minced garlic
09 -
1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend
10 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 -
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
12 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# Steps:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy, then add olive oil, 3 cups flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
02 -
Knead on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding remaining flour as needed.
03 -
Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
04 -
Meanwhile, mix softened butter with garlic and dried herbs.
05 -
Roll dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle, spread with herb butter, and sprinkle with cheeses and parsley.
06 -
Roll tightly from the long side, pinch seam to seal, and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let rise another 30-45 minutes.
07 -
Bake in a preheated 190°C/375°F oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Serve warm for best flavor.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, bloom the dried herbs by warming them in the butter for 1 minute before spreading.
02 -
Try a Mediterranean variation by adding ¼ cup each of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the filling.