Italian Herbs Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for a fluffy, aromatic loaf that will transport you straight to a rustic Italian kitchen, Italian Herbs Cheese Bread should be at the very top of your baking list. Each slice is shot through with gooey cheese, savory Italian seasoning, and a golden crust that’s impossible to resist. Whether served warm with a bowl of soup or simply enjoyed on its own, this flavorful homemade bread is the ultimate comfort food for cheese and herb lovers.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry staples and a few well-chosen seasonings, you’ll have everything you need to create a loaf of Italian Herbs Cheese Bread that’s packed with savory flavor. Every ingredient plays an important role, from the tender crumb to the addictively cheesy swirl and the bright pop of fresh herbs on top.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and that satisfying, chewy texture.
• Sugar: Just a tablespoon, to encourage yeast growth and add a subtle hint of sweetness.
• Instant yeast: Makes the dough rise reliably and quickly, so you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying.
• Salt: Balances the savory and cheesy flavors, bringing out the best in every spice.
• Italian seasoning: This blend of dried herbs infuses the bread with that unmistakably herby, Mediterranean flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth, making each bite irresistibly aromatic.
• Onion powder: Boosts the savory character of the loaf, harmonizing perfectly with the cheese and herbs.
• Warm water (110°F): Activates the yeast and helps hydrate the dough for softness and rise.
• Olive oil: Contributes moisture and that classic Italian richness, plus keeps the crumb tender.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for stretchy, cheesy swirls throughout the bread.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Packs a bold, salty punch and adds an irresistibly nutty finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top for fresh, vibrant color and a whisper of earthiness.

How to Make Italian Herbs Cheese Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding your flour, sugar, instant yeast, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use a spoon or whisk to combine these well. This step ensures every slice is brimming with that fragrant blend of Italian herbs, right from the get-go.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients and Form the Dough

Pour in your warm water and olive oil, then stir until a shaggy dough starts to form. There’s no need to overthink it — just mix until everything comes together. This is the beginning of your soft, flavorful Italian Herbs Cheese Bread dough!

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth

Transfer the dough to a floured surface or let your stand mixer do the work. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes, aiming for a smooth, elastic texture. When you press the dough with your finger and it springs back, you’re on the right track. Kneading builds the structure that helps the bread rise beautifully.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough back in the bowl. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This slow, steady rise creates that light crumb we love in homemade bread.

Step 5: Shape and Fill with Cheese

Punch down the airy dough and roll it out into a rectangle, about 9 by 12 inches. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the surface — this step guarantees gorgeous, cheesy ribbons in every slice of Italian Herbs Cheese Bread.

Step 6: Roll and Second Rise

Starting at the short end, roll the dough jelly-roll style, then tuck the seam underneath and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 to 40 minutes. The loaf will get puffier and ready for its golden transformation.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the loaf is ready, slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The bread should turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Once baked, let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for an optional, fresh flourish.

How to Serve Italian Herbs Cheese Bread

Garnishes

Finish your Italian Herbs Cheese Bread with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a dusting of extra Parmesan for irresistible color and aroma. You can also try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a swirl of balsamic glaze for sweet tang.

Side Dishes

This bread is a superstar alongside soups, salads, or classic pastas. Try dipping warm slices into a bowl of tomato basil soup, pairing it with a Caesar salad, or serving it with roasted vegetables. For the ultimate comfort meal, make it part of a hearty Italian feast!

Creative Ways to Present

You can slice and toast the bread for savory crostini, use it as the base for the best-ever grilled cheese or panini sandwiches, or cube it into croutons for salads. Warm, sliced Italian Herbs Cheese Bread also makes a standout addition to a charcuterie board or appetizer platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Italian Herbs Cheese Bread tightly in plastic or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The flavors meld even more as it rests, making it just as delicious the next day, especially when lightly toasted.

Freezing

To freeze, let your loaf cool completely, then wrap it snugly in foil and place it in a freezer bag. Slices can be frozen individually if you like, for quick single servings. Frozen Italian Herbs Cheese Bread will keep its flavor and texture for up to three months.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked crust and gooey cheese, warm slices in a toaster oven or in a 350°F oven for 8 to10 minutes. Microwave works too, but the bread will be chewier rather than crusty. Enjoy it warm for the best fresh-from-the-oven flavor.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! Just dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water with the sugar, let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly, then proceed with the recipe as written. Your Italian Herbs Cheese Bread will rise beautifully either way.

Can I customize the cheese blend in this recipe?

Yes! Mix things up with cheeses like provolone, Asiago, or fontina, or add a handful of sharp cheddar for extra flavor. The classic mozzarella and Parmesan combo is always a crowd-pleaser, but Italian Herbs Cheese Bread welcomes creativity.

Is there a way to make this bread vegan?

You can easily substitute the cheese for your favorite plant-based alternatives and use olive oil in place of butter, if desired. There are tons of dairy-free cheeze shreds out there that melt wonderfully in this Italian-inspired loaf.

Can I bake the dough in a different pan?

Certainly! A round cake pan or even as dinner rolls works — just adjust the baking time as needed. The joy of Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is how flexible it is for any occasion or shape.

What’s the best way to get a super golden, shiny crust?

For a bakery-style finish, brush the shaped loaf with a bit of olive oil or melted butter before baking. This little step gives Italian Herbs Cheese Bread that mouthwatering color and sheen everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to impress at a family dinner or just want to fill your kitchen with the scent of fresh baked bread, Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is a surefire winner. Try this recipe once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again — share a loaf with friends and watch it disappear!

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