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Italian Herb Cheese Bread:

The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection Recipe

4.9 from 23 reviews

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread recipe is a delightful treat that combines savory herbs, three types of cheese, and a soft, fluffy bread dough. Perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Ingredients

Scale

Bread Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

Cheese Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Egg Wash and Toppings:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water
  • Everything bagel seasoning
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese
  • Dried Italian herbs

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour and salt in a separate bowl.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 6-8 minutes until smooth.
  5. First Rise: Let the dough rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
  6. Combine Filling Ingredients: Mix all cheese filling ingredients in a bowl.
  7. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to the filling.
  8. Chill the Filling (Optional): Chill the filling for easier spreading.
  9. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven and line a baking sheet.
  10. Punch Down the Dough: Deflate the risen dough gently.
  11. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a rectangle.
  12. Spread the Filling: Spread the filling over the dough.
  13. Roll Up the Dough: Roll the dough into a log and seal the seam.
  14. Cut the Log: Cut the log lengthwise and twist the strands together.
  15. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the twisted bread on the baking sheet.
  16. Prepare Egg Wash: Whisk the egg and milk together.
  17. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the bread with the egg wash.
  18. Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle with seasonings.
  19. Bake: Bake until golden brown and bubbly.
  20. Cool Slightly: Cool the bread before serving.

Notes

  • You can customize the filling with your favorite herbs and cheeses.
  • Feel free to add other toppings like sesame seeds or chopped nuts.
  • This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Herb Cheese Bread, Cheese Bread Recipe, Homemade Bread, Herb Bread, Baking