Description
A fluffy and flavorful Italian bread that blends savory herbs and cheese, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 (like basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if it’s too sticky.
- Proof the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the risen dough to release air and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased bread pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a shallow pan of water at the bottom to create steam.
- Bake the Bread: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should be 200-210°F.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Italian bread, cheese bread, homemade bread, baking, easy bread recipe