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Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Italian Herb Cheese Bread: Comforting Homemade Delight

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a warm, comforting delight packed with flavorful herbs and gooey cheese, perfect for any meal or as a snack.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Or bread flour for chewier texture
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast Fresh is essential
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Can substitute with honey or agave
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor
  • 1 cup warm water 105-115°F
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with melted butter
For the Filling
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Use Neufchâtel for a lighter option
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can use provolone or cheddar
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Aged cheeses work well too
  • 1 cup chopped fresh herbs Mix of parsley, basil, oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced, can omit garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for heat
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 egg for egg wash Mix with milk or water
  • 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning Optional topping
  • dried Italian herbs Enhances aroma and taste

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Wire Rack
  • wooden spoon
  • Plastic wrap
  • Kitchen Towel

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours.
  5. Prepare the filling by mixing together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan with fresh herbs and spices.
  6. Once risen, roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately 12x18 inches.
  7. Spread the cheesy filling evenly over the rolled dough.
  8. Roll the dough into a log tightly, cut in half lengthwise, and twist the two strands together.
  9. Place the twisted loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pinch the ends.
  10. Prepare an egg wash and brush it over the loaf, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
  11. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

This bread is perfect for pairing with marinara or serving as a side dish. Experiment with different cheeses and herbs for unique flavors.

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