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Homemade Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread, golden-brown with herbs and cheese topping.

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread offers a crispy, golden crust with a tender crumb, rich in flavor from mozzarella and parmesan, making it an easy and impressive bake.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bread, Side
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Use high-quality for the best texture.
  • 1.5 cups warm water About 110°F or 43°C
  • 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast One packet.
  • 1 teaspoon salt 6 grams.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps with crust color.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian herbs Oregano, basil, thyme mix (10 grams).
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Provides gooey texture.
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds savory depth.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine the warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Whisk together the flour, salt, and Italian herbs in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Stir in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Incorporate the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan into the dough.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking
  1. Deflate the dough and shape it into a round boule.
  2. Let it rise on a parchment-lined baking sheet for another 30–45 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Score the bread with shallow slashes on top.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  6. Let the bread cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Store slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For best texture, reheat in the oven before serving.