Name: Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 2 tbsp sugar; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

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

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

Step 1: In a small bowl, stir the warm water and sugar together. Add the yeast and let the mixture sit for 5–7 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.

Step 4: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Punch down the risen dough and knead in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 7: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the bread is golden brown.

Step 9: Remove the bread from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let it cool for 10 minutes. Slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

For an extra garlic flavor, add minced fresh garlic to the dough or brush the top with garlic butter before baking.

Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy twist.

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.

Make it a stuffed bread by rolling the cheese mixture inside the dough instead of kneading it in.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast using the same amount, but add it directly to the flour mixture without proofing it in water.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

This recipe relies on all-purpose flour for structure and texture. To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking and adjust liquids as needed, but the texture may differ.