Rustic Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

This rustic Italian herb and cheese bread is crusty on the outside, soft and chewy inside, and packed with the comforting flavour of herbs and melted cheese. It is a straightforward yeast bread that feels special without being complicated. Perfect for beginners, the dough is forgiving and easy to handle. From start to finish, it takes about 2 hours including proving and baking.

Ingredients

For the Bread Dough

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 7g fast-action yeast
• 1½ tsp fine salt
• 2 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 325ml warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese Filling

• 120g mature cheddar, grated
• 40g parmesan, finely grated

How to Make Rustic Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

• Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C or 200°C fan. Place a baking tray or stone in the middle of the oven to heat.
• Mix the dough: Put the flour, yeast, salt, and dried herbs into a large bowl. Stir to combine, then add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
• Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
• First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and leave in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
• Add the cheese: Knock back the dough, flatten slightly, scatter over the grated cheeses, then fold and shape into a round loaf.
• Bake: Transfer to baking paper and place onto the hot tray. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
• Cool: Leave to cool on a wire rack before slicing so the crumb sets properly.

Tips

Why did my bread spread instead of rising?

The dough may have been too wet or under-kneaded. Add a little extra flour and knead until elastic.

How do I get a crusty finish?

Bake on a hot tray and place a small dish of water in the oven to create steam.

Can I change the cheese?

Yes, mozzarella, gruyere, or a mix of hard cheeses all work well.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar
• Pair with soups or pasta dishes
• Toast slices and top with butter or soft cheese

Storage

Room Temperature

Keep in a bread bag or wrapped in foil for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator

Not recommended, as it dries the bread.

Freezing

Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature.

Nutrition

• Calories: 260 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.

FAQs