Italian Herb Cheese Bread
Soft homemade bread filled with cheese and herbs.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups 420g all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Herb Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh 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
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Dried Italian herbs
Instructions
Prepare the dough:
- In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In another bowl, whisk flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture and olive oil to flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
Prepare the filling:
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, herbs, garlic, and spices.
- Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the bread:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the herb cheese filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll or fold the dough and shape into a loaf.
Final rise and bake:
- Place dough on a baking tray and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
- Brush with egg wash and add optional toppings.
- Bake Italian Herb Cheese Bread at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Substitute dried herbs if fresh are unavailable