Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 4 reviews

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread recipe features a flavorful blend of Italian seasonings combined with a mix of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and Mozzarella cheeses. Ideal for bakers of all levels, this bread offers a crispy golden crust with a soft and cheesy interior, perfect for serving alongside Italian meals or enjoying as a savory snack.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3 large loaves

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 500 g bread flour (4 cups)
  • 12 g salt (2 tsp)
  • 1 tablespoon mixed Italian seasoning
  • 7 g active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
  • 5 g sugar (1 tsp)

Wet Ingredients

  • 235 g water (1 cup), warmed to 100°F-110°F
  • 100 g whole milk (⅓ cup), room temperature

Cheese and Toppings

  • ½ cup shredded cheese mix (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Mozzarella)
  • 1 teaspoon additional Italian seasoning for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (100°F-110°F) and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and stir gently. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Knead the Dough: In a large bowl, mix bread flour, mixed Italian seasoning, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and room temperature milk. If using a stand mixer, knead on low speed with a dough hook for 7-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and shiny. If kneading by hand, stir until a rough dough forms, then transfer to a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Bulk Fermentation: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
  4. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside for topping the bread later.
  5. Shape the Bread: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape the dough into a round and then divide it into three equal portions. Shape each portion into small loaves.
  6. Proof Shaped Bread: Place the three shaped loaves on a parchment-lined baking tray. Cover them with a towel and let them rise in a warm area until puffy and nearly doubled in size. While proofing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Add Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle the prepared cheese mixture evenly over the top of each proofed loaf, leaving a small border around the edges. Optionally, sprinkle additional dried Italian herbs on the cheese for extra flavor.
  8. Bake the Bread: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the breads at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until they develop a golden brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating they are fully baked.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove the breads from the oven and cool on wire racks for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure the crumb sets properly and the flavors meld.

Notes

  • Use warm water between 100°F-110°F to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
  • Kneading can be done by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for convenience.
  • Allowing the dough to rise in a draft-free environment helps the yeast work efficiently.
  • Adjust the cheese blend to your liking; Parmesan adds a sharp flavor while mozzarella provides meltiness.
  • Letting the bread cool completely before slicing prevents it from becoming gummy inside.
  • For a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 3 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/italian-herb-and-cheese-bread-recipe/