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Italian Herb Cheese Bread Recipe

Italian Herb Cheese Bread Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 30 reviews

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a delightful combination of soft, fluffy bread swirled with a savory herb and cheese filling. Perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack!

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

Filling:

  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Additional:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water
  • Everything bagel seasoning
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese
  • Dried Italian herbs

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour and salt in a separate bowl.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix yeast mixture and olive oil with flour until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. First Rise: Let dough rise until doubled, about 1-1.5 hours.
  6. Combine Filling Ingredients: Mix all filling ingredients together.
  7. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to filling, mix well.
  8. Chill the Filling (Optional): Chill filling for 15-20 minutes.
  9. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  10. Punch Down the Dough: Gently deflate the dough after rising.
  11. Roll Out the Dough: Roll dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
  12. Spread the Filling: Spread herb cheese filling over dough.
  13. Roll Up the Dough: Roll dough into a log, seal the seam.
  14. Cut the Log: Slice the log lengthwise.
  15. Twist the Strands: Twist the two strands together.
  16. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place twisted bread on prepared baking sheet.
  17. Prepare Egg Wash: Whisk together egg and milk.
  18. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush bread with egg wash.
  19. Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle with desired toppings.
  20. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  21. Cool Slightly: Cool on baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

  • You can customize the filling with your favorite herbs and cheeses.
  • This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Herb Cheese Bread, Herb Cheese Bread Recipe, Homemade Cheese Bread

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/italian-herb-cheese-bread-recipe/