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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

A rustic, artisan-style homemade bread infused with Italian herbs, garlic, and loaded with savory melted cheese inside and out.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 245

Ingredients
  

Dough Base
  • 1.5 cups warm water 105°F-110°F
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast one standard packet
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar or honey
  • 3.5 - 4 cups bread flour plus more for dusting
  • 1.5 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Flavor Mix-ins and Topping
  • 2 tbsp dried Italian seasoning divided
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese divided
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
  • Dutch oven or baking sheet
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Stir in the olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and half of the Italian seasoning.
  3. Gradually add bread flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. During the last minute of kneading, fold in half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down dough, shape into a round boule, and place on parchment paper. Cover and let rise again for 45-60 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a Dutch oven, preheat it inside the oven.
  8. Score the top of the loaf, brush lightly with water, and top with the remaining cheese and Italian seasoning.
  9. Bake covered in the Dutch oven for 25 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
  10. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Store cooled bread in a paper bag for up to 2 days, or slice and freeze for up to 3 months.