Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
Soft Italian herb and cheese bread bakes with a golden Parmesan crust, savory garlic, and pockets of melted mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 145 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf, 12 slices
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/4 cups bread flour, plus more as needed
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Mix dough: Combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Add water and 2 tablespoons oil; mix into a soft dough.
- Knead and rise: Knead 8 minutes until smooth. Cover in an oiled bowl and rise 60 minutes, until doubled.
- Shape: Flatten into a rectangle, scatter with mozzarella and half the Parmesan, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on a lined tray.
- Proof: Cover and rise 25 to 30 minutes. Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Brush with remaining oil, top with remaining Parmesan, and score. Bake 28 to 32 minutes until golden and 195°F inside. Cool before slicing.
Notes
Add flour gradually; the dough should remain slightly tacky. Store airtight for two days or freeze sliced. Contains wheat and milk. Images are AI-generated illustrations; recipe not kitchen-tested.