Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread: A Flavor-Filled Delight

Making homemade bread is not just a cooking task; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and inviting aromas. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread while searching for a way to enhance my weeknight dinners. What makes this bread unique is its perfect combination of seasonal Italian herbs and melted cheese, giving each slice a rustic, savory taste. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a way to bring everyone to the table for a cozy meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a true masterpiece that deserves a place on your dinner table! Here’s why you’ll love making it:

• Simplicity: With just a bread machine and a few ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful loaf in no time.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy goodness and aroma of Italian herbs are often a hit with kids—perfect for family dinners.
• Versatile: Whether it’s a weeknight meal, a casual brunch, or a festive gathering, this bread complements any occasion beautifully.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients, this recipe allows you to bring gourmet flavors home without breaking the bank.

“This bread has become a staple in our house! The kids ask for it all the time, and it pairs perfectly with everything from soups to pasta.”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Creating Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is so simple that even novice bakers can tackle it. Here’s a quick overview of how to make it:

1. Gather your ingredients.
2. Load them into your bread machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Select the right cycle for optimal results.
4. Let the bread machine do the work—mixing and baking included!
5. Once it’s baked, let it cool before slicing.

Let’s delve into what you’ll need next to make this incredible bread.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you jump in, here’s your ingredient checklist to ensure you have everything at hand:

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• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or parmesan work beautifully)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Feel free to customize based on what you have available—different cheeses or herbs can offer new flavors too!

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you’re prepped, let’s get into the cooking steps:

1. Add the Ingredients: Start by adding all listed ingredients into your bread machine. Follow the order recommended by your machine’s manual for best results.
2. Choose Cycle: Select the ‘Basic’ or ‘Herb Bread’ cycle. This will help infuse the flavors perfectly.
3. Start the Machine: Press start and let the magic happen as the machine mixes and bakes the bread for you.
4. Cooling Time: Once the cycle is complete, remove your bread and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
5. Serve Warm: Enjoy it warm with your favorite meal—trust me, it elevates any dish!

Perfect Pairings for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

This bread isn’t just tasty on its own; it offers endless possibilities for serving. Here are some ideas:

• With Soup: Pair with a hearty minestrone or a creamy tomato soup.
• As a Side: Great alongside your favorite pasta dishes—think spaghetti or lasagna.
• As Toast: Slice it up, toast it lightly, and top with bruschetta or garlic butter.
• With Salads: Complement alongside a fresh Caesar or Greek salad for a balanced meal.

Keeping Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Fresh Longer

To maintain its delightful freshness, here are some useful storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container or a resealable bag for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To keep it longer, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, simply pop slices in the toaster or warm them in the oven to restore that fresh-baked flavor.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are some extra hints to elevate your baking experience:

• Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements ensure perfect consistency. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Warm Water: Make sure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C)—this is ideal for activating the yeast without cooking it.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try adding a mix of cheeses for a deeper flavor profile. Cheddar and Asiago would be delicious!

Flavor Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few creative twists:

• Herb Mix: Swap out the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a garden-fresh flavor.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pine nuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or a bit of crushed garlic for a zesty twist.

FAQs

How long does it take to make this bread?

The bread cycle on most machines takes between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the model and chosen settings.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While you can use all-purpose flour, the bread may not rise as high and could be less chewy. Bread flour is recommended for its higher protein content.

How should I store leftovers?

Ensure the bread is completely cool before storing. Wrap in plastic and keep in a cool, dry place, or freeze for longer storage.

With this incredible recipe for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, you can enjoy the comforting taste of homemade bread anytime you desire. Happy baking!

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

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• Total Time: 195 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Homemade Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, a flavorful loaf filled with Italian herbs and melted cheese, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or parmesan)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Add all listed ingredients into your bread machine following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Select the ‘Basic’ or ‘Herb Bread’ cycle.
3. Start the machine and let it mix and bake the bread.
4. Once the cycle is complete, remove the bread and cool on a wire rack.
5. Serve warm with your favorite meal.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the toaster or oven.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: bread, Italian, herb, cheese, homemade, baking, side dish