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Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

A warm, golden loaf with a crispy crust and soft, cheesy interior, infused with fragrant Italian herbs that elevate any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F) Make sure it's warm, not hot.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or parmesan) Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir gently and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and Italian herbs. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  3. Mix with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  5. Punch down the dough to release air. Knead in the shredded cheese. Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller rolls.
  6. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!

Notes

To keep leftovers fresh, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.