Description
Homemade Italian herbs and cheese bread with a crispy crust, filled with aromatic herbs and melted cheeses, perfect as a side or snack.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all‑purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1¾ cups warm water (about 110 °F)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8‑10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1‑2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf or place it in a greased bread pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 450 °F (230 °C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.
- Bake the bread for 25‑30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach 200‑210 °F.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, feel free to add more herbs or experiment with different cheese combinations.
- This bread pairs beautifully with pasta, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed with olive oil as a simple snack.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200
