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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: A Warm Homemade Treat

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a warm, homemade treat filled with garlic and aromatic herbs, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Quick Meals
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast Check for freshness to ensure a good rise.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Honey can be a sweet alternative, just reduce the water slightly.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Kosher salt works great for a nice crunch.
  • 1 cup warm water Aim for 110°F; milk can add a creamier taste instead.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Melted coconut oil offers an interesting twist.
For the Filling
  • ¼ cup butter (softened) Feel free to swap with margarine if needed.
  • 2-3 cloves garlic (minced) Roasted garlic can provide a sweeter flavor depth.
  • 2 tablespoons dried Italian herb blend Fresh herbs are more vibrant, so use 3-4 times the amount.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Provolone or fontina can bring different flavor profiles.
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Substitute with Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste.
For Garnish
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped) You can swap it out for basil or oregano if preferred.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • loaf pan
  • Kitchen towel
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

Dough Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add all-purpose flour and salt. Mix it with olive oil after the yeast mixture is ready, then gradually add to flour until a shaggy dough forms.
Kneading
  1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
  1. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.
Filling Preparation
  1. Mix softened butter, minced garlic, and dried Italian herb blend in a small bowl.
Shaping
  1. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the herb butter mixture, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese and parmesan over it.
Second Rise
  1. Roll the dough into a tight log and place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F, then bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate the bread but this may affect texture.

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