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Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread: Your Cozy Homemade Delight

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a delightful homemade recipe filled with gooey mozzarella and zesty Parmesan, perfect for any Italian meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with bread flour for chewier texture.
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast Ensure it's fresh for optimal rise.
  • 1 cup Warm Water 110°F/45°C, activates yeast.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Feeding the yeast; honey can substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with melted butter.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Balances flavor and controls yeast.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can enhance flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic adds more punch.
For the Cheese Filling
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can mix in other cheeses.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano may enhance flavor.
For Garnishing
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Optional, for garnish.
  • 2 tablespoons Melted Butter For brushing.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Loaf pan
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, stir together warm water and sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle in active dry yeast, allowing it to bloom for 5-7 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning.
  3. Create a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
  4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Shape the dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour.
  6. Punch down the dough, knead in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
  7. Form the dough into a loaf shape, place in a greased loaf pan, cover, and allow to rise for another 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes to prevent a gummy texture. You can also experiment with adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

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