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Italian Herb Cheese Bread Recipe

Italian Herb Cheese Bread Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 20 reviews

Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a mouthwatering, aromatic loaf combining a crusty exterior with gooey, melted cheese and fresh Italian herbs inside. This savory bread is perfect as a side for pasta, a snack on its own, or a highlight on any charcuterie board. The blend of creamy cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, complemented by parsley, basil, oregano, and garlic, creates a flavorful and comforting experience that captures the essence of Italian baking tradition.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

For the Herb Cheese Filling:

  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water

For Topping (Optional):

  • Everything bagel seasoning
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese
  • Dried Italian herbs

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy, indicating it’s active and ready to use.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt, which aids gluten development and flavor.
  3. Mix Dough: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir using a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead with a stand mixer on medium speed for the same duration. Add flour gradually if too sticky.
  5. First Rise: Grease a large bowl with olive oil, place dough inside, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, basil, oregano, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and black pepper thoroughly. Chill for 15-20 minutes for easier spreading, if desired.
  7. Preheat Oven: Heat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Prepare Dough for Filling: Punch down risen dough to release air. Roll out on floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle, keeping an even thickness.
  9. Spread Filling: Evenly spread the herb cheese mixture over dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border along one long edge.
  10. Roll Dough: Starting from the opposite long edge, roll dough tightly into a log. Pinch seam to seal.
  11. Cut Log: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log in half lengthwise with cut sides facing up.
  12. Twist Strands: Gently twist the two strands together, keeping cut sides visible to create a braided look.
  13. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place twisted bread on the lined sheet; shape into a circle or leave as a long loaf.
  14. Apply Egg Wash: Whisk egg and milk or water, then brush evenly over the bread surface to ensure a golden crust.
  15. Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, extra Parmesan, or dried herbs as desired.
  16. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and filling is bubbly. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  17. Cool: Let the bread cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Ensure yeast is fresh and water is warm but not hot to activate properly.
  • Chilling the cheese filling helps with spreading but is optional.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on preferred heat level.
  • Use a stand mixer with dough hook for convenience and consistent kneading.
  • If the dough is sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time to avoid over-drying.
  • You can shape the twisted bread into a circle or leave it as a long loaf.
  • Adding toppings like everything bagel seasoning elevates the flavor and texture.
  • Watch the bread in the oven in last few minutes to avoid overbrowning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian herb cheese bread, savory bread, cheesy bread, homemade bread, herb bread, easy bread recipe

Find it online: https://flavorsbymaya.com/italian-herb-cheese-bread-recipe/