Rustic Italian Herb and Cheese Bread A Slice of Heaven
Rustic Italian Herb And Cheese Bread A Slice Of
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 235 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Recipe Introduction
Ever wondered how to bring a little bit of Italy to your kitchen? This Italian herb cheese bread recipe is your answer! It's bursting with fragrant herbs and cheesy goodness.
Honestly, who can resist fresh bread?
Italian Cheese Bread Recipe : A Taste of Italy at Home
This recipe takes inspiration from rustic Italian bakeries. It’s simple, yet incredibly flavorful. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.
It's a medium difficulty recipe. Plan for about 2 hours and 30- 35 minutes. This recipe makes one loaf, perfect for sharing. Or not!
Main Benefits: Why You'll Love This Herb Cheese Bread
This homemade Italian bread is packed with flavor. The herbs add antioxidants and vitamins. The cheese gives you a protein boost.
This easy cheese bread recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. Serve it with pasta or a simple salad.
This Italian herb bread makes any meal special. It has a real homemade feel.
Let's talk ingredients. We'll start with the dough basics. Trust me, it's easier than you think.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Italian Herb Cheese Bread
Ready to bake some seriously delicious Italian cheese bread recipe ? Awesome! Let's talk ingredients and gear. I've had my fair share of kitchen mishaps, so trust me, these tips will help.
Main Ingredients for Herb Cheese Bread
Okay, here's what you need.
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (360g) . Look for unbleached flour.
- Granulated sugar: 1 tbsp (12g) .
- Salt: 1 ½ tsp (9g) .
- Active dry yeast: 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp / 7g) . Make sure it's not expired!
- Warm water: 1 cup (240ml), 110° F / 43° C to 115° F / 46° C . Water must be warm. Not hot or cold.
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp (30ml) .
- Italian cheese blend: 1 cup (113g) shredded . I usually grab a mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone.
If you are looking to make some Homemade Italian Bread , this is a great place to start!.
Seasoning Notes for an Italian Herb Bread
These herbs are key to that authentic Italian herb cheese bread flavor.
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp .
- Dried basil: 1 tsp .
- Dried parsley: 1 tsp .
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp .
- Onion powder: ½ tsp .
Don't have all these? Honestly, an Italian seasoning blend works great. Just use about 2-3 tsp . For a garlic Herb Cheese Bread , use garlic salt
Equipment Needed for this Cheese Bread Recipe
You don't need fancy gadgets for this easy cheese bread recipe .
- Large mixing bowl.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Clean kitchen towel.
- 9x5-inch loaf pan . Alternatively, a baking sheet with parchment paper works.
- Wire rack.
No loaf pan? No problem! Free-form it on a baking sheet. Your rustic Italian bread might not be as pretty, but it'll still taste amazing.
Honestly, once you smell that Italian herb cheese bread baking, you'll be hooked. It's cheesy herb bread heaven!
Mastering the Rustic Italian Herb and Cheese Bread: A Slice of Heaven
Honestly, who can resist warm, cheesy bread? Not me! I was craving something comforting and decided to try making Italian herb cheese bread from scratch.
I’ve tweaked this Italian cheese bread recipe over time, and now it’s become a firm favourite. I even made it for my Auntie Susan last Christmas, and she hasn't stopped raving about it.
Let's dive in!
Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Magic
Before you even think about mixing, get everything in its place. This isn't just posh chef talk. Get your Italian bread with herbs and cheese measured out.
Warm your water to 110° F - 46° C. It's like giving the yeast a warm bath. Set out your herbs and cheese.
Trust me, proper mise en place saves time and stress.
Step-by-Step: Bready Perfection
- Activate Yeast: Mix warm water, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 packet yeast. Wait for it to get foamy.
- Make Dough: Add 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 ½ tsp salt, and most of the flour to your yeast mixture. Start mixing.
- Knead Baby Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead until smooth.
- First Rise: Put the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it. Let it rise for one hour and forty-five minutes.
- Incorporate Goodness: Punch down the dough. Knead in the herbs and ¾ cup cheese.
- Shape it: Shape it! Place the dough in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover, let rise again until puffy.
- Bake Time: Bake for 25- 30 minutes until golden and hollow.
Pro Tips for Epic Herb Cheese Bread
Want to elevate your homemade Italian bread game? Don't skip the second rise. It's key for a light, airy texture.
Be careful not to over-bake. Nobody likes dry bread. I often sneak a peek after 25 minutes . If you are running out of time, use an easy cheese bread recipe instead.
Another fantastic ingredient is garlic. My friend Mary always adds garlic, so it becomes Garlic herb cheese bread .
Common mistake? Water that's too hot or too cold for the yeast. Also, avoid over-kneading. Over-kneading leads to tough bread.
If you are baking for a large crowd, double the recipe or make a second loaf of Cheesy herb bread .
Store-bought Rustic Italian bread can't compete with what you just made! You are free to experiment with the cheese, you can use a mix of parmesan and mozzarella for your Italian herb bread .
Recipe Notes
Fancy making this Italian herb cheese bread even more amazing? Here are a few tips and tricks. They come straight from my own baking escapades.
Honestly, these helped me go from bread-making novice to pretty darn good . You know?
Serving Suggestions: Make it a Showstopper
Right, let's talk presentation! First, slice up your Italian cheese bread recipe and arrange it artfully. Think rustic. A wooden board is perfect.
Drizzle some good olive oil over the slices. Sprinkle a little extra herb cheese bread on top. It looks amazing! Serve it with a Caprese salad.
It's bellissimo ! A simple glass of wine also goes down a treat.
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh
This homemade Italian bread is best fresh. But life happens. Wrap it tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Want to freeze it? Slice it first. Then wrap each slice individually. This stops them sticking together. Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 5- 10 minutes .
It's almost as good as fresh.
Variations: Your Bread, Your Way
Feel like tweaking this Italian herb bread ? Go for it! Need a dairy-free version? Just swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Simple. Want to add a bit of oomph ? A pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick. If you have a cheese bread recipe this is the perfect add in.
It will give your bread a lovely garlic herb cheese bread taste. You can also use seasonal herbs. Fresh rosemary in winter is heavenly .
A little cheesy herb bread always helps.
Nutrition Basics: A Little Something for Everyone
So, let's be real. Rustic Italian bread isn't health food. But it's good for the soul! Each slice has around 220-250 calories.
It also offers a decent amount of protein. You need that for energy, right? Of course. It has healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese.
Carbs too, but hey! Everything in moderation.
Making this easy cheese bread recipe is a joy. Don't be afraid to experiment! Most important? Have fun. Share it with people you love.
Because nothing beats Italian bread with herbs and cheese . You’ve got this. Now, go bake something amazing !
Frequently Asked Questions
My dough isn't rising! What gives?
A few things could be happening, mate! First, check your yeast's expiration date – if it's past its prime, it won't do its job. Secondly, water temperature is key; too hot and you'll kill the yeast, too cold and it won't activate. Aim for that "baby bath" warmth (around 110°F/43°C).
Finally, make sure your rising environment is warm, a cold kitchen will slow things down significantly.
Can I make this Italian herb cheese bread ahead of time?
You certainly can! You can prepare the dough through the first rise, then punch it down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and continuing with the recipe.
Baked Italian herb cheese bread can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
An Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone) gives that classic pizzeria flavour, but feel free to get creative! Cheddar will add a lovely tang, or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. Experiment with your favorites, just make sure whatever you use is shredded for even distribution in the dough.
How can I make this Italian herb cheese bread dairy-free?
No worries, going dairy-free is totally doable! Use a good-quality dairy-free cheese alternative – there are some great mozzarella and cheddar style shreds available these days. Instead of brushing the top with melted butter, use olive oil for a lovely, flavorful crust.
Is there a way to make this bread a bit healthier?
Absolutely! Swap out up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavour and added fibre. You could also reduce the amount of cheese slightly, or use a lower-fat cheese option. Remember that even "healthy" bread is best enjoyed in moderation, though!
My bread is browning too quickly on top, what can I do?
If your bread is getting too brown before it's fully baked, tent it loosely with foil. This will shield the top from direct heat and prevent it from burning. Also, make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even baking.
