Name: Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups bread flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme); 1 cup warm water (110°F); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or Italian blend); 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

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why make this recipe

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. It’s a perfect choice for those who love fresh, homemade bread with a twist. This recipe is easy to follow, and the results are simply delicious. Whether you want to enjoy it on its own, with soup, or as part of your favorite sandwich, this bread is sure to please everyone.

how to make Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Ingredients:

3 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or Italian blend)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast

Directions:

Add warm water, olive oil, and yeast to the bread machine pan. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add bread flour, salt, sugar, Italian herbs, and cheese into the pan.
Select the ‘Basic Bread’ or ‘French Bread’ setting on the bread machine.
Start the machine and let it bake.
Once baked, remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy!

how to serve Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

You can serve Italian Herb and Cheese Bread warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own, but you can also pair it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It makes a great side for pasta dishes or a lovely sandwich for lunch or dinner.

how to store Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best eaten within a few days. You can also wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze it if you want to save it for later. Just thaw it to room temperature before serving.

tips to make Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Make sure your water is the right temperature (about 110°F) for the yeast to activate properly.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.

variation

You can add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra burst of flavor. Adjust the herbs according to your taste preferences, and try substituting some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this bread without a bread machine?
Yes, you can! Just mix the ingredients in a bowl, knead the dough for about 10 minutes, let it rise until doubled in size, shape it into a loaf, and bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes.

2. What type of cheese should I use?
You can use mozzarella for a mild flavor or an Italian blend for more robust taste. Other cheeses like cheddar can also be used if you prefer.

3. How can I tell if the bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F.