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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

A warm, golden loaf studded with fragrant Italian herbs and molten pockets of cheese, with a crisp, slightly chewy crust and tender crumb.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Bread, Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 slices
Calories 195 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Bread

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
  • cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 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
 

Preparation

  • 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.
  • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
  • 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.
  • 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 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 for 25–30 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
  • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra flavor, brush a tiny bit of olive oil on the crust after baking.
Keyword Baking, Cheesy Bread, Herbs and Cheese Bread, Homemade Bread, Italian Bread