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Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Aromatic and cheesy, this Italian bread is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Its golden crust and fluffy interior make it a delightful addition to any meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
Flavorings
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
  3. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together.
  4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 7-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, feel free to add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  5. Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese and dried herbs into the dough. Knead gently until they are evenly distributed.
Rising
  1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  2. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
  3. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  3. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm with olive oil or your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat slices in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.