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This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a cozy, flavorful homemade bread that combines fragrant Italian herbs with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese inside a soft, fluffy loaf. Perfect for family dinners, snacks, or holiday gatherings, it offers warm aromas and a delicious taste without complicated steps.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 1 round loaf (approximately 12 slices) 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 grams)
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (360 ml, about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (6 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian herbs blend (oregano, basil, thyme, 10 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 grams)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by mixing warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Whisk together flour, salt, and Italian herbs in a large bowl.
  3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Flatten the dough and fold in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, kneading gently to distribute evenly.
  6. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf (boule), and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a floured proofing basket.
  8. Cover and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed.
  9. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place baking stone inside if available.
  10. Score the surface of the bread with shallow slashes using a sharp knife or bread lame.
  11. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until crust is golden brown and bread sounds hollow when tapped; internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
  12. Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free bread., Swap mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly version., Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for brighter flavor., Try different cheeses such as sharp cheddar or feta for flavor variations.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180 per slice
  • Fat: 7g per slice
  • Carbohydrates: 24g per slice
  • Protein: 6g per slice