Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread can be a straightforward and rewarding process when you follow these simple steps:
1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast is activated, pour it into the dry mixture along with olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Add Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
8. Second Rise: Cover the loaf again and let it rise for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the top of the pan.
9. Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Bake: Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
11. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top for added aroma and presentation.
By following these steps, you will create a delicious loaf of Italian Herb and Cheese Bread that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10 slices
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 7g