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Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Irresistible Italian Herb Cheese Bread Everyone Will Love

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a delicious blend of melted cheese, fragrant herbs, and a golden crust, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rise Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast Ensure freshness for optimal rising.
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Brown sugar is a possible substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for balanced taste.
  • 1.5 cups Warm Water Critical for activating the yeast.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can replace with melted butter for a richer taste.
Filling Ingredients
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Substitute with ricotta for a lighter filling.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provolone or gouda can act as alternatives.
  • 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese Can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
  • 0.5 cups Chopped Fresh Italian Parsley Use fresh for best flavor.
  • 0.5 cups Basil Dried versions can be used but adjust quantity.
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Dried versions can be used but adjust quantity.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced and powder for aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for additional heat.
Finishing Touches
  • 1 large Egg For egg wash and browning the crust.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk or Water Adjust for dietary preferences.
  • 1 tablespoon Everything Bagel Seasoning Optional for added flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Herbs Additional flavor that can be customized.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • wire rack

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. Activate Yeast: In a mixing bowl, stir together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
  3. Mix Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough begins to form.
  4. Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. First Rise: Lightly grease a bowl, place the dough inside, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, approximately 1-1.5 hours.
  6. Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, basil, oregano, garlic, and desired spices.
  7. Chill Filling (optional): Refrigerate the filling for 15-20 minutes for easier spreading.
  8. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. Punch and Roll Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangular shape, about ¼-inch thick.
  10. Spread Filling: Evenly distribute the filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  11. Roll Log and Cut: Roll the dough into a log shape, seal the edge, and cut the log in half to create two strands.
  12. Twist Strands: Twist the two strands together and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  13. Egg Wash: Brush the top with an egg wash and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning if desired.
  14. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  15. Cool: Let the bread cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Serve with marinara sauce for a delightful dipping experience! Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 7 days.

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