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–+ servings
a foot long subway copycat bread cooling on a cooling rack

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Meenakshi
This recipe for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread combines the comforting flavors of Italian seasoning with a delightful blend of cheeses. Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, this bread is a must try.
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Prep Time 3 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Bread
Cuisine Italian
Servings 3 large loaves
Calories 684 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g bread flour (4 cups)
  • 235 g water (1 cup)
  • 100 g whole milk (⅓ cup)
  • 12 g salt (2 tsp)
  • 7 g Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
  • 5 g sugar (1 tsp)
  • 1 tablespoon Mixed Italian seasoning
  • ½ cup shredded cheese mix (Monterey jack + Cheddar + Mozzarella cheese mix)
  • 1 teaspoon Additional Italian seasoning for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

Activate Yeast

  • Combine warm water (100°F-110°F) and sugar in a small bowl.
  • Sprinkle yeast over the water and mix well.
  • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbles and foam form, indicating activation.

Kneading the Dough

  • Kneading in a Stand Mixer: In a large bowl, combine bread flour, Italian seasoning, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and room temperature milk. Knead with a dough hook on low speed for 7-8 minutes until smooth and shiny.
  • Kneading the Dough by Hand: In a large bowl, mix flour, Italian seasoning, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and milk, stirring until a rough dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Bulk Fermentation Process

  • Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap.
  • Let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  • Mix shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan in a small bowl. Set aside.

Shape the Bread

  • Punch down the risen dough, transfer to a floured surface, and shape into a round.
  • Divide into three equal parts and shape into three small loaves.

Proofing the Shaped Bread

  • Place shaped bread on a parchment-lined tray, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm area.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) once bread has risen.

Add the Cheese Mix

  • Sprinkle cheese mixture over proofed bread, leaving a small border.
  • Add dried Italian herbs on top.

Bake the Bread

  • Bake in preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Bread is ready when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Cool on racks for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Choosing the Right Cheese: Opt for cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone, to achieve that perfectly cheesy crust. You can also add cheese inside the bread dough also. The more cheese, the merrier!
  • Ensuring Proper Dough Consistency: Pay attention to the dough's consistency while kneading - it should be soft, smooth, and slightly sticky. This will result in a light and airy bread with a delightful chew.
  • Baking Techniques for Best Results: For a crispy crust and fully melted cheese, bake the bread on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. A hot oven and a little steam will help create that bakery-quality finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

📋Nutrition Facts

table of nutrition facts about the Italian herb cheese bread

Nutrition

Calories: 684kcal
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