Name: Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3½ cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend; 1 cup warm water (110°F); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons butter (softened); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

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This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a perfect blend of fragrant herbs, melted cheeses, and a soft, golden crust. Ideal for serving alongside soups, salads, or simply enjoying on its own, it fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Let’s dive into making this delicious homemade bread.

The image shows several slices of golden brown bread arranged in a row on a white marbled surface. Each slice reveals a soft, airy inside that has a mix of green herbs, likely rosemary, and small specks of melted orange cheese. The crust is crispy and slightly darker at the edges, creating a rough texture all around. The layers within each slice include a light, fluffy bread base with swirls of herbs and cheese evenly spread, giving a marbled look inside. The focus is on the closest slice, capturing the detailed texture and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3½ cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon sugar
1½ teaspoons salt
1 cup warm water (110°F)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter (softened)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding the remaining flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: While the dough is rising, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and dried Italian herbs until well combined.
Step 5: Roll the dough into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread the herb butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, and chopped parsley.
Step 6: Roll the dough tightly from the long side like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal and place it seam-side down in a greased 9 by 5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the herb butter mixture.
Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different cheesy twist.
If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried parsley can be used, but add it with the Italian herbs in the butter mixture.
Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil or melted butter before baking to achieve a shiny crust.

Storage

Store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaf wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to revive freshness.

How to Serve

The image shows a loaf of sliced bread with a golden crust, placed on a round wooden board. The bread has a soft, light interior with small green herb pieces spread evenly throughout. Three slices are laid out in front of the remaining loaf, showing the bread's airy texture and speckled herb layers inside. The board sits on a white marbled surface, and near the board are small bowls with black and white peppercorns, a pepper mill, and some scattered pepper seeds. A woman's hand is reaching slightly toward the bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Use the same amount, but mix it directly into the flour without proofing in water first.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of around 190°F also indicates doneness.