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Italian Herb Cheese Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 50 reviews

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread is a deliciously soft, aromatic bread filled with a flavorful blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh Italian herbs. Twisted and baked to a golden brown, it’s perfect for serving as an appetizer, snack, or alongside your favorite meal. The combination of fresh garlic, herbs, and a hint of red pepper flakes creates a savory and comforting treat that’s both impressive and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

Filling

  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian 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

Toppings and Finishing

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water
  • Everything bagel seasoning (optional)
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt thoroughly to ensure even seasoning in the dough.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for the same duration. Add extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, if the dough is too sticky.
  5. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl and turn it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
  6. Combine Filling Ingredients: While the dough rises, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, basil, oregano, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes in a medium bowl until well combined.
  7. Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to the filling mixture to adjust seasoning and mix well.
  8. Chill the Filling (Optional): For easier spreading, chill the filling in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before using.
  9. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
  10. Punch Down the Dough: Once doubled in size, gently punch down the dough to release trapped air.
  11. Roll Out the Dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a 12 x 18 inch rectangle.
  12. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the herb cheese filling over the dough rectangle, leaving a 1/2 inch border along one long edge clear of filling to help seal the roll.
  13. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal it well.
  14. Cut the Log: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log lengthwise in half. Keep the cut sides facing up.
  15. Twist the Strands: Gently twist the two halves together, ensuring the cut filling sides face upward for a beautiful pattern.
  16. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully move the twisted loaf to the prepared baking sheet. You may form it into a circular shape or leave it as a long loaf according to preference.
  17. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and milk (or water) to create an egg wash that will give a glossy finish to the bread.
  18. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the bread with the egg wash evenly to promote a golden crust.
  19. Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning, additional grated Parmesan cheese, or dried Italian herbs on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  20. Bake: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbly. If the bread browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
  21. Cool Slightly: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • If you do not have fresh herbs, substitute with 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley, basil, and oregano.
  • Chilling the cheese filling makes it easier to spread and less messy.
  • Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save time kneading by hand.
  • Brush the bread with egg wash for a shiny golden crust; omit for a more rustic finish.
  • Everything bagel seasoning adds texture and flavor but is optional.
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Italian herb cheese bread, stuffed bread, savory bread, herb cheese bread, cream cheese bread, mozzarella bread, homemade Italian bread

Find it online: https://todayfoodrecipe.com/italian-herb-cheese-bread-recipe/