Description
This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread combines aromatic Italian seasoning and garlic powder with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a flavorful, soft, and golden loaf. Perfect as a side or for sandwich making, this homemade bread offers a delightful homemade taste with a tender crumb and cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, stir together warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–7 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning evenly to combine the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir together until a rough dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, developing gluten structure.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Add Cheese: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Knead the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan into the dough evenly, incorporating the cheese throughout.
- Shape and Second Rise: Shape the cheesy dough into a loaf and transfer it into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes to puff up.
- Bake Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter for a golden crust, then bake for 30–35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Warm water should be between 110°F and 115°F to effectively activate the yeast without killing it.
- If you want a softer crust, brush additional melted butter on the bread immediately after baking.
- This bread is great served fresh but can be toasted later for sandwiches or as garlic bread.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian herb bread, cheese bread, homemade bread, mozzarella bread, Parmesan bread, Italian seasoning bread
