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Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Italian Herb Cheese Bread: Comfort Food with Cheesy Goodness

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread combines comfort and cheesy goodness, transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups All-purpose flour or bread flour for extra chewiness
  • 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast ensure it's fresh
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar or honey as a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Salt essential for flavor
  • 1 cup Warm water 105-115°F
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil or melted butter
For the Cheesy Filling
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese or ricotta as a lighter alternative
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese or provolone
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Grana Padano as a swap
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Italian parsley or dried herbs if fresh isn't available
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil or dried herbs
  • 1/4 cup Fresh oregano or dried herbs
  • 2 cloves Minced garlic or garlic powder
For the Extras
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 1 number Egg for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon Milk or water for egg wash, vegan option available
  • 2 tablespoons Everything bagel seasoning for topping
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian herbs for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Plastic wrap
  • oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and stir gently. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center for the yeast mixture.
  3. Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Mix until combined, forming a shaggy dough.
  4. Turn the shaggy dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Shape the dough into a ball and place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm area for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
  6. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, fresh herbs, minced garlic and seasonings until creamy.
  7. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes for a firmer consistency, if desired.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Punch the risen dough down and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the filling over the surface, leaving a border.
  10. Roll the dough tightly into a log, pinch seam to seal, cut the log lengthwise, twist halves together, and place on the baking sheet.
  11. Beat the egg with milk or water, brush the top of the loaf, and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning if desired.
  12. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbling. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store leftovers wrapped in parchment or in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days at room temperature, up to 5 days in the fridge, and up to 3 months in the freezer.

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