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The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection Recipe

The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection Recipe
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4.7 from 20 reviews

This Italian Herb Cheese Bread recipe combines a fragrant blend of fresh Italian herbs, creamy cheeses, and a soft, golden crust to create a perfect homemade bread. Ideal as a savory snack or side, this twisted herb cheese bread offers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that will delight your family and guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 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

Cheese and Herb 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 to ensure even distribution.
  3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for the same duration. Add 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, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
  6. Prepare the Cheese Filling: While the dough is rising, combine 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. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix thoroughly.
  7. Optional – Chill Filling: For easier spreading, chill the cheese filling in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  9. Punch Down the Dough: After the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release excess air.
  10. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle.
  11. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the prepared herb cheese filling over the dough surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border along one long edge.
  12. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the opposite long edge without filling, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam tightly to seal it.
  13. Cut the Log: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, carefully slice the log in half lengthwise, keeping the cut sides facing up to reveal the filling layers.
  14. Twist the Strands: Gently twist the two strands together, ensuring the cut sides remain facing up to showcase the swirl of filling.
  15. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully place the twisted bread onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a circle or leave as a long loaf.
  16. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or water to create an egg wash for a golden finish.
  17. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the bread with the egg wash to help it brown beautifully in the oven.
  18. Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle the bread with everything bagel seasoning, extra grated Parmesan, or dried Italian herbs if desired to enhance flavor and texture.
  19. Bake: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbly. Tent with foil if the bread begins to brown too quickly.
  20. Cool Slightly: Allow the bread to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the cheese filling sets nicely.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh, high-quality herbs and cheeses to enhance flavor.
  • You can substitute fresh herbs with 1 tablespoon dried Italian herb mix if fresh herbs are unavailable.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional; add or omit based on your spice preference.
  • Store any leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
  • This bread freezes well; freeze wrapped tightly and thaw at room temperature before reheating.
  • For a dairy-free alternative, replace cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan with suitable vegan cheese substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian herb bread, cheese bread, herb cheese twist, homemade bread, Italian herbs, savory bread, cream cheese bread

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