Herb and Cheese Bread Loaves – A Flavorful Twist on Classic Homemade Bread

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F), sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is essential for activating the yeast, which will help the dough rise.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together. You should have a slightly sticky dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. Kneading is crucial as it develops the gluten, giving your bread its chewy texture.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough doubles in size. This is where the magic happens—be patient!
5. Shape the Loafs: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a loaf by gently rolling it out and tucking in the ends. Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet or cooling rack, leaving a little space between them.
6. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Brush it generously over the top of each loaf. This gives the bread a beautiful, glossy finish and helps the Parmesan cheese and herbs stick to the top.
7. Add the Parmesan and Herbs: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, and oregano) over the loaves. The Parmesan will melt into the bread during baking, adding flavor, while the herbs will infuse the bread with their aromatic essence.
8. Bake the Loafs: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The egg wash will give the bread a nice, shiny crust.
9. Cool and Slice: Once done, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the bread to set, ensuring you get clean slices without squishing the soft interior.

Why This Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe Works

The combination of Parmesan cheese and dried herbs creates a savory bread that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. The use of olive oil in the dough adds a slight richness without making the bread overly greasy, while the egg wash ensures that the crust turns golden and crispy.

This bread is perfect for those who love fresh, homemade bread but don’t want to spend hours waiting for a complicated recipe. With the help of active dry yeast, you’ll get a beautiful rise without the need for a sourdough starter, making it a quicker option for busy days.

Tips for the Best Herb and Cheese Bread:

• Use Warm Water, Not Hot: Make sure the water is warm, not hot, when activating the yeast. Hot water can kill the yeast, resulting in a flat loaf.
• Customize the Cheese and Herbs: Feel free to switch up the herbs or use a different cheese. Garlic, basil, or cheddar can all be great additions.
• Keep the Bread Fresh: This bread tastes best the day it’s made, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this with whole wheat flour? Yes! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread. Just note that it may be denser.
2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Fresh herbs will work well! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. Make sure to chop them finely for better distribution.
3. What can I do if my dough isn’t rising? Ensure your yeast is active. If the dough isn’t rising, try moving it to a warmer place or give it more time to rise. Sometimes yeast can be slow, depending on temperature.

Conclusion

This Herb and Cheese Bread Loaf is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy it with pasta, soups, or just on its own, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The Parmesan cheese and dried herbs infuse the bread with irresistible flavor, while the soft and fluffy interior makes every slice a treat.

So grab your ingredients and get baking—this bread is sure to be the star of your next dinner!