Description
This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any meal or occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 320 ml warm water (approximately 37°C)
- 2 tablespoons instant or active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or avocado oil
- 0.5 tablespoon fine salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 30 g dried potato flakes (optional, for extra softness)
- 470 g bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 30 g shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 30 g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 10 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 0.5 tablespoon dried oregano
- 0.5 tablespoon dried parsley
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes until foamy, ensuring the yeast is active.
- Add oil, salt, egg, potato flakes (if using), and flour to the bowl. Mix on low speed with a dough hook until incorporated, then knead on medium speed for 6–8 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
- Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and allow to rise in a warm area for approximately 1 hour or until doubled in volume.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried parsley. In a separate bowl, mix Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Gently punch down the risen dough and divide into four equal portions. Roll each into a log, about 25–30 cm long. Arrange loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone baguette tray.
- Cover the shaped loaves with a towel and let them proof for 20–30 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Lightly brush the tops with water or oil to help toppings adhere. Sprinkle the herb mixture first, then distribute the cheese blend evenly on each loaf, pressing gently for adherence.
- Preheat oven to 190°C. Using a sharp knife, make shallow diagonal slashes in the tops for optimal oven spring. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden and crusty.
- Transfer loaves to a wire rack and cool for at least 30 minutes. Slice as desired or serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra flavorful bread, ensure that the herbs are fresh and high-quality.
- This bread can be frozen for later use, just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg