Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Soft, fragrant, and full of savory flavor, this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is the perfect homemade loaf to level up any meal. Inspired by bakery-style artisan bread, it features a golden crust, a soft interior, and the irresistible blend of Italian herbs and melty cheese in every bite. Whether you’re making sandwiches, pairing it with pasta, or serving it warm with a pat of butter, this bread is a crowd-pleaser.

If you’ve ever loved the cheesy, herb-filled aroma of fresh bread from your favorite sub shop, now you can bring it home with this easy recipe.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Homemade Bakery Flavor – Tastes like it came straight from a deli oven.
Soft Yet Cheesy – Perfectly fluffy with gooey pockets of cheese and herbs.
Versatile – Use it for sandwiches, garlic bread, or eat it warm right out of the oven.
Customizable – Choose your favorite cheese and herb combos.
Beginner-Friendly – Simple steps make it approachable even if you’re new to baking bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Herb and Cheese Filling:

• 1½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or dough hook (stand mixer optional)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or loaf pan
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Form into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Add the Filling
5. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
6. Roll into a rectangle (about 10×14 inches).
7. Brush the surface with 1 tbsp olive oil.
8. Sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley.

Step 3: Roll and Final Rise
9. Roll the dough up tightly from the short end (like a jelly roll).
10. Pinch the seam to seal and place seam-side down on a baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
11. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 4: Bake the Bread
12. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
13. Optional: Brush the top of the loaf with more olive oil and sprinkle with extra cheese or herbs.
14. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
15. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
16. Slice the bread and serve warm, or cool completely and use for sandwiches or toast.

Tips for the Best Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread
Use Fresh Cheese – It melts better and adds richness.
Herb It Up – Feel free to add rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a more intense flavor.
Don’t Overload – Too much filling can make the dough harder to roll and bake evenly.
Let It Rest – Let the loaf cool slightly before slicing so the cheese sets and the crumb holds.
For Extra Chew – Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a heartier bite.

Serving Suggestions
With Pasta – Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo.
As a Sandwich – Make a killer grilled cheese or sub sandwich with it.
As Garlic Bread – Slice, toast with garlic butter, and enjoy with soup or salad.
On a Charcuterie Board – Add slices to a board with meats, cheeses, and olives.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temperature: Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Slice and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Toaster or Oven: Toast slices at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
Microwave: Warm individual slices for 15–20 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different cheeses?
   Absolutely! Try cheddar, provolone, fontina, or a blend for different flavors.
2. Can I make this dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise.
3. What herbs work best?
   Italian seasoning is a great base, but you can mix in dried basil, oregano, thyme, or even red pepper flakes for heat.
4. Can I make rolls instead of a loaf?
   Yes! Divide the dough and shape into rolls. Bake for 15–18 minutes.
5. Do I need a stand mixer?
   Not at all—this dough is easy to knead by hand.

Final Thoughts
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is everything you want in a homemade loaf—flavorful, soft, cheesy, and perfect for almost any meal. Whether you slice it thick for sandwiches or serve it warm with dinner, it’s a versatile and delicious addition to your baking routine.

Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. Customize the herbs and cheeses to make it your own and enjoy the comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread in your kitchen.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 270 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 420mg

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