Italian Herbs & Cheese Bread (So Easy, You’ll Make It Every Week!)

Introduction

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from your oven, infused with the savory flavors of Italian herbs and the richness of melted cheese. This Italian Herbs & Cheese Bread is a culinary delight that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the creativity of a gourmet recipe. What sets this bread apart is its ease of preparation, making it an ideal addition to your weekly meal routine. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver impressive results with minimal effort, ensuring that you’ll want to make it every week.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors from the Italian herbs and cheese creates a delicious and aromatic bread that is hard to resist.
• The accessibility of the ingredients means you can easily find what you need in your local grocery store, making this a practical choice for any day of the week.
• The ease of preparation is a significant advantage, as it requires minimal time and effort to mix and bake, perfect for those with busy schedules.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in the warm water. Add the yeast to the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of the flour. Mix well, then add the yeast mixture and continue mixing until a dough forms.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the remaining cup of flour, one half cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You may not need all of the remaining flour, so add it gradually and be prepared to stop adding flour when the dough feels right.
4. Step 4: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oblong loaf. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Step 6: Mix the mozzarella, parmesan, Italian herbs, and garlic powder in a bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the loaf.
7. Step 7: Bake the bread for about 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Handy Tips

• Make sure your yeast is fresh, as this will affect the rise of your bread. If you’re not sure, you can test the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar and waiting to see if it becomes frothy.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to a dense bread. Mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then let the kneading process develop the gluten in the dough.
• Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the bread to retain its texture and make it easier to slice.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking this bread is 375°F (190°C), and it should be baked for about 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on the bread after 30 minutes, as the baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your loaf.

Crunch Factor

This Italian Herbs & Cheese Bread is best when it has a crispy crust and a soft interior. To achieve this, make sure you don’t overbake the bread, and let it cool on a wire rack after baking. If you want an extra crispy crust, you can try baking the bread for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until it is golden brown.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a pizza stone in your oven to bake the bread, as this will help to create a crispy crust. Preheat the stone in the oven before baking the bread.
• Try using different types of cheese, such as provolone or gouda, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Add some dried fruits or nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before storing it in an airtight container. This will help to preserve the texture of the bread and keep it fresh for longer.
• Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat the bread, wrap it in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This Italian Herbs & Cheese Bread is a great gift idea for friends and family, especially when packaged in a decorative basket or bag. Try pairing the bread with a bottle of wine, some artisanal cheeses, or a jar of homemade jam for a thoughtful and delicious gift. You can also wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie it with a ribbon for a more rustic look.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding some diced ham or bacon to the dough for a savory twist.
• Use different types of herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Add some grated vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to the dough for added moisture and flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If your bread doesn’t rise, check that your yeast is fresh and that you have used the right amount of sugar and warm water.
• If your bread is too dense, try reducing the amount of flour you use or increasing the amount of yeast.
• If your bread is too crispy, try reducing the baking time or covering the bread with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Simply shape the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is this bread gluten-free? No, this bread contains gluten due to the use of all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger loaf of bread. Simply multiply all of the ingredients by two and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

Conclusion

This Italian Herbs & Cheese Bread is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for any day of the week. With its savory flavors and crispy crust, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious from scratch. Happy baking!