There is nothing like the smell of fresh bread on a cold winter afternoon. It fills your home with a warm, savory aroma that everyone loves.
This homemade Italian herbs and cheese bread is my favorite way to brighten a gray day. It is soft, cheesy, and much better than anything from a sandwich shop.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
You will love how simple this recipe is for beginners. It uses basic pantry staples to create a bakery-quality loaf right in your kitchen.
This bread is the ultimate comfort food for your family. It is hearty enough for winter but light enough for a fresh lunch. Your kids will especially love the golden, crispy cheese crust.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making yeast bread can feel scary, but I promise you can do this. The steps are very straightforward and easy to follow. You just need a little bit of patience while the dough rises.
We use a simple kneading technique to make the dough tender and elastic. Even if you have never baked bread, this method works every time. You will feel like a pro when that golden loaf comes out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen. Freshly shredded cheese makes a big difference for the perfect melt.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Step-by-Step
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl; let bloom for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Incorporate olive oil and salt into the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add bread flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and shape into a long loaf; place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise for an additional 40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the loaf with egg wash, then sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, parmesan, and shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this loaf warm with a thick slab of salted butter. It is the perfect side for a hearty winter soup or stew. You can also slice it thin for the best turkey sandwiches ever.
For a cozy night in, pair it with a fresh garden salad. The savory herbs and melted cheese make every bite feel special. Your family will keep asking for more slices!
How to Store Leftovers
Keep your bread in an airtight bag at room temperature. It will stay fresh and soft for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for quick weekday lunches.
To reheat, wrap a slice in foil and warm it in the oven. A 350°F oven for five minutes makes the cheese melty again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust crispy.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a thermometer to check your water temperature.
- Don’t skip the second rise for a fluffier texture.
- Freshly grate your cheese for the best melting results.
- Lightly flour your hands if the dough feels too sticky.
- Double the batch during the holidays to share with neighbors.
- Sprinkle a little extra parmesan halfway through baking for extra crunch.
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and foamy before adding flour.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add a teaspoon of garlic powder for a garlic-herb twist.
- Swap monterey jack for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Use gluten-free bread flour if you have a sensitive tummy.
- Stir in red pepper flakes for a little spicy kick.
Common Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour if needed. The bread will be slightly less chewy than with bread flour. It will still taste delicious and cheesy.
How do I know if the dough has risen enough?
The dough should look twice as big as when you started. Gently poke it with one finger. If the indent stays, it is ready to shape.
Can I make the dough the night before?
You can let the dough rise slowly in the fridge overnight. This actually develops a deeper, better flavor. Just let it reach room temperature before shaping.
I hope this cozy bread brings a little warmth to your kitchen. There is nothing quite like sharing a fresh loaf with the people you love. Happy baking!
— Lidia
Homemade Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl; let bloom for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Incorporate olive oil and salt into the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add bread flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and shape into a long loaf; place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise for an additional 40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the loaf with egg wash, then sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, parmesan, and shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
