Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a savory, fragrant loaf that pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own as a snack. This homemade bread is infused with aromatic Italian herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, and studded with rich, gooey cheese throughout the dough. The result is a golden crust with a soft, tender interior bursting with flavor — a perfect addition to any Italian-inspired meal or a cozy afternoon treat.
Homemade bread like this elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. By combining traditional breadmaking techniques with aromatic seasonings and cheeses such as mozzarella and Parmesan, you get rustic artisan bread that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma while baking. Simple to prepare and deeply satisfying, this bread is a great project for bread lovers and beginners alike.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean kitchen towel
- Baking sheet or loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – 4 cups
- Active dry yeast – 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
- Warm water (about 110°F / 43 °C) – 1¾ cups
- Granulated sugar – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – 1 tablespoon
- Dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary) – 2 tablespoons
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding extra flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1–2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf or place in a greased bread pan. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). For extra crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam.
- Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Rising Time: ~1 hr 30 min
- Total Time: ~2 hrs 15 min
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: Italian / Artisan Bread
- Course: Side Dish / Snack
How to Store
Store cooled bread at room temperature wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or paper bag for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place in an airtight container or plastic bag and refrigerate up to 5 days. To refresh texture, warm the loaf in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes.
What Not to Do
- Do not skip proofing the yeast; proper activation ensures good rise.
- Avoid adding too much extra flour while kneading — this can make the bread dense.
- Do not slice while still hot, or the interior may compress and become gummy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or garlic powder to the dough.
- Try substituting half the mozzarella with sharp cheddar or asiago for a bolder cheese profile.
- Brush the finished loaf with melted butter and sprinkle extra herbs for a glossy crust.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: ~6 g
- Fat: ~6 g
- Carbohydrates: ~29 g
- Fiber: ~1.5 g
- Sugar: ~2 g
Classic Homemade Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding extra flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1–2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf or place in a greased bread pan. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). For extra crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam.
- Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Protein: ~6 g
- Fat: ~6 g
- Carbohydrates: ~29 g
- Fiber: ~1.5 g
- Sugar: ~2 g
Conclusion
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread recipe delivers an aromatic, cheesy loaf with a crusty exterior and soft, savory interior. With simple everyday ingredients and a classic bread-making process, you can enjoy delicious homemade artisan bread that complements meals or stands on its own.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes — use about three times the amount of fresh herbs if substituting for dried.
Why does the bread need steam during baking?
Steam helps develop a crisp, golden crust while keeping the inside tender.
Can I make smaller rolls instead of a loaf?
Yes — divide dough into smaller pieces and shape into rolls before the second rise.
Is this bread good with soups?
Absolutely — its herb and cheese flavors pair well with soups and salads.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes — wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months; thaw at room temp.
