Description
Soft, fragrant, and loaded with flavor, this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is everything you love about bakery-style loaves—right from your own oven. Infused with a blend of savory herbs and crowned with golden, melty cheese, it’s perfect as a side for soups and pastas, or for crafting the ultimate sandwich. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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3¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
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2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup warm water (110°F)
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the Herb & Cheese Blend:
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1½ tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp dried basil
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½ tsp dried parsley
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy—this means your yeast is active and ready.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
(You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)
Form into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare Herb & Cheese Blend
In a bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
Mix cheeses in a separate bowl and reserve about ⅓ cup for topping.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface.
Roll or shape into a rectangle if making a free-form loaf, or form into a log to fit a loaf pan.
Flatten slightly and sprinkle the herb blend and ⅔ of the cheese mixture over the top.
Gently roll or fold the dough in thirds like a letter, then tuck the ends underneath.
Place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan.
Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Add Topping & Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the top of the dough with olive oil or melted butter.
Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Let cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
Use Warm Water – Not hot! Too hot can kill your yeast.
Don’t Overdo the Flour – A slightly tacky dough creates a softer bread.
Let It Rise – Be patient; a good rise creates that bakery-soft texture.
Use Fresh Cheese – Shredded off the block melts and browns better than pre-shredded.
Customize It – Try provolone, smoked gouda, or sun-dried tomatoes in the mix.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American