Print

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Print Recipe

A warm, crusty bread with melty mozzarella and fragrant Italian herbs, perfect for sandwiches, soups, or gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 grams)
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (360 ml, about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 ¼ 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)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 grams)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)

Instructions

  1. Pour warm water into a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit until frothy, about 5–10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and Italian herbs.
  3. Add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Gently fold the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan into the dough.
  6. Grease a bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise until doubled in size, about 1–2 hours.
  7. Punch down the dough gently and shape it into a round boule. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it proof another 30–45 minutes.
  8. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough proofs.
  9. Score the top with a sharp blade, then bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  10. Remove from the oven and cool on a rack before slicing.

Notes

For a chewier crumb, use bread flour. If using instant yeast, reduce the water temperature slightly and mix with flour directly. You can swap the Parmesan for other cheeses like manchego or pecorino Romano.

Find it online: https://www.wholesomeeasy.com/italian-herbs-cheese-bread/