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Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Italian Herb Cheese Bread - Comfort Food Heaven Awaits

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread combines gooey cheese and fragrant herbs, making it a perfect comfort food.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour substitute with bread flour for a chewier result
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast ensure it's fresh for optimal rising
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional and can be reduced or omitted
  • 1 teaspoon salt essential for balancing the dough
  • 1.5 cups warm water 105-115°F to activate the yeast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil substitute with melted butter for a richer touch
For the Filling
  • 8 ounces cream cheese can be exchanged for ricotta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese try other cheeses like provolone for variety
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds savory flavor
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley substitute with thyme or rosemary as desired
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or powdered
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust according to your preference
For the Egg Wash and Toppings
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning optional topping
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs optional topping

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Oven
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • wooden spoon
  • plastic wrap
  • kitchen towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt until well combined. Ensure there are no lumps.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Grease a large bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours.
  6. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and fresh herbs until smooth.
  7. Chill the cheese filling in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, if desired.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Once the dough has risen, punch it down, roll it out into a large rectangle, and spread the filling evenly.
  10. Roll the dough tightly into a log, cut in half lengthwise, and twist the strands together to form a braid.
  11. Transfer the twisted dough to the prepared baking sheet, pinch the ends to seal, and brush with egg wash.
  12. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensure fresh yeast is used for the best results. Optionally brush with melted garlic butter after baking for added flavor. Let cool slightly before slicing to maintain the filling's structure.

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