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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

A delightful and easy recipe for homemade bread infused with Italian herbs and gooey cheese, perfect for a cozy moment at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Appetizer, Bread
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour 480 grams
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water 360 ml, about 110°F or 43°C
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 teaspoon salt 6 grams
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil 30 ml
  • 2 teaspoons Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) 10 grams, mixed
Cheese Ingredients
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 100 grams
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 50 grams

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Activate the yeast: Combine warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and Italian herbs.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Incorporate cheese: Flatten the dough and fold in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
  6. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
  7. Shape the bread: Form the dough into a round boule and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Final rise: Let the shaped dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
  9. Preheat the oven: Set it to 425°F (220°C).
  10. Score the bread: Make shallow slashes on the surface.
  11. Bake: Place the bread in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  12. Cool: Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For best results, do not skip the rising steps. Store bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for freshness.