If you’re looking for a bread that’s both savory and satisfying, look no further than this cheese and herb bread recipe.
Perfect for any occasion, this homemade cheese and herb bread recipe loaf combines the rich, melty goodness of cheese with the aromatic punch of fresh herbs, creating a deliciously fragrant and flavorful bread.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a warm bowl of soup, toasting it with butter, or enjoying it on its own, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s an ideal choice for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will bring this irresistible bread to life!
What Does Cheese And Herb Bread Taste Like?
Cheese and herb bread recipe has a delightful combination of savory flavors and aromatic freshness. The warm, soft interior is infused with the rich, creamy taste of melted cheese, while the herbs—like parsley, thyme, and garlic—add an earthy, fragrant kick.
The crust is golden and slightly crispy, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft, cheesy center. Every bite offers a perfect balance of cheesiness and herbal notes, making it irresistibly comforting and full of flavor.
It’s the kind of bread that’s both satisfying on its own and complements a variety of dishes.
How To Prepare Cheese and Herb Bread Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Difficulty: Medium
Cuisine: International (Western-style)
Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl,
- Baking Pan,
- Oven,
- Kitchen Towel
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix everything until it forms a dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should feel soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Herbs
Flatten the dough into a rectangle and sprinkle the cheese, parsley, thyme, and garlic powder over the top. Fold the dough over the filling, then knead again until the cheese and herbs are evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Let it Rise
Place the dough into an oiled bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you like a golden finish, brush the top with milk. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Amount Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Best Serving Ideas For Cheese And Herb Bread Recipe
1. Pair with Soup:
Cheese and herb bread makes an excellent accompaniment to creamy soups like tomato, butternut squash, or potato leek. The bread’s savory flavor and soft texture complement the richness of the soup.
2. Serve as an Appetizer:
Slice the bread into thick chunks or cubes and serve it with a dipping sauce, such as marinara, balsamic vinegar with olive oil, or a creamy garlic dip. It’s a great option for parties or gatherings.
3. Toast and Butter:
For a simple yet indulgent snack, toast slices of the bread and spread with a little butter or garlic butter. The cheese and herb flavors really shine when it’s warm and crispy.
4. As a Side for Salads:
Serve the bread alongside fresh, green salads to add a hearty, flavorful element to the meal. It works especially well with tangy vinaigrettes.
5. Sandwiches or Sliders:
Use slices of cheese and herb bread to make delicious sandwiches or mini sliders. Fill them with your favorite deli meats, veggies, or even a fried egg for a breakfast twist.
Quick Tips And Tricks To Perfectly Every Time
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your olive oil and any dairy products (like milk or cheese) are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the dough come together more smoothly.
2. Add Extra Cheese for Gooeyness: For an even cheesier loaf, sprinkle some shredded cheese inside the dough before shaping it, then top the loaf with more cheese before baking.
3. Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Spot: Yeast loves warmth! If your kitchen is chilly, place the dough in an oven with just the light on or near a warm window to speed up the rising process.
4. Brush with Olive Oil or Butter: For a shiny, golden crust, brush the top of the dough with olive oil or melted butter before baking.
5. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead the dough just enough to bring it together and activate the gluten. Overworking it can make the bread dense rather than soft and airy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use any type of cheese for this bread?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is a popular choice for its meltiness and flavor, mozzarella, gouda, or even Parmesan work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses like mozzarella may create a gooier texture, while harder cheeses will add more flavor.
Can I make this bread without yeast?
You can make a quick version of cheese and herb bread without yeast by using baking powder or baking soda. The texture will be more like a biscuit or scone—lighter and less chewy—but still delicious. If you’re looking for a yeast-free alternative, I recommend searching for a “quick bread” recipe.
How do I store leftover cheese and herb bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast or warm it in the oven.
Can I add more herbs or spices to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano. You can also add spices like red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Just be sure not to overwhelm the bread with too many flavors—balance is key!
Why did my bread turn out dense?
If your bread turned out dense, it could be due to a few factors. First, make sure the yeast is active by letting it froth in warm water before using it. Over-kneading the dough or not letting it rise enough can also result in a dense texture. Be patient with the rising process, and give the dough time to fully double in size.
Conclusion
This cheese and herb bread recipe is so much more than just a side dish. It’s a celebration of flavors that pair perfectly with any meal.
The combination of cheese, fresh herbs, and the light, fluffy texture of the bread makes it a standout addition to any table.
With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can bake up a loaf that rivals anything from a bakery. I’m confident you’ll love this cheese and herb bread recipe as much as I do so give it a try and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Here Are Some Bread Recipes You Might Enjoy
Gluten-Free Whole Wheat Bread Recipe – Best Here’s
Fluffy Wheat Bread Recipe – Homemade Goodness
Amazing Banana Blueberry Bread Recipe
Blueberry Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread Recipe – A Burst of Flavor
Banana Applesauce Bread Recipe [Sweet And Simple]
Cheese And Herb Bread Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Pan,
- Oven
- Kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 ¼ teaspoons
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ cup warm water about 110°F
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or cheese of your choice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon milk optional, for brushing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
- Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix everything until it forms a dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should feel soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Herbs
- Flatten the dough into a rectangle and sprinkle the cheese, parsley, thyme, and garlic powder over the top. Fold the dough over the filling, then knead again until the cheese and herbs are evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Let it Rise
- Place the dough into an oiled bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you like a golden finish, brush the top with milk. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!