Italian Herbs Cheesy Bread (Printer-Friendly)
Golden Italian herbs bread with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, offering a tender crumb and rich savory flavor.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 -
3 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
1 cup warm water (110–115°F)
03 -
2 teaspoons sugar or honey
04 -
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
05 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
06 -
1 teaspoon salt
07 -
1–2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
08 -
1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Cheese Filling
09 -
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
Pinch of Italian seasoning
→ Finishing
12 -
2–3 tablespoons melted butter
13 -
1 clove garlic, minced
14 -
Pinch of salt
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
Whisk warm water with sugar until dissolved, sprinkle yeast on top, and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
02 -
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and Italian seasoning. Add most of the fresh parsley if using, reserving some for later.
03 -
Add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
04 -
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
05 -
Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 60–70 minutes until doubled in size.
06 -
Mix mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
07 -
Deflate dough, roll into a 12×8 inch rectangle. Sprinkle half the cheese mixture, add parsley, then remaining cheese. Roll tightly from the short end and seal the seam. Shape into a loaf and tuck ends under.
08 -
Place loaf on parchment-lined baking sheet or pan, cover loosely, and let rise for 25–40 minutes until puffy and increased in height.
09 -
Preheat oven to 425°F. Bake for 20–25 minutes until crust is deep golden and cheese is melted. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
10 -
Brush top of hot loaf with melted butter mixed with minced garlic and a pinch of salt for a glossy finish.
11 -
Let loaf rest 10 minutes to set cheese, then slice thickly and serve while warm.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
For a softer crust, brush the loaf with additional melted butter right after baking.