Bread baking is an art that combines simple ingredients with a little patience to produce something truly magical. This Homemade Herb & Cheese Bread is an elevated version of a classic loaf, infused with fragrant herbs and studded with melty, savory cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner alongside soups and salads, this bread is a treat for both the eyes and the palate. Its golden crust and soft, flavorful interior make it a favorite among family and friends, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe delivers reliably delicious results with a beautiful homemade touch.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
300 ml (1¼ cups) warm water
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
150 g (1½ cups) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 egg (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary). Mix well so the flavors are evenly distributed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough starts to form.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Add Cheese and Parsley: Gently knead in the shredded cheese and fresh parsley until evenly incorporated throughout the dough. The cheese adds pockets of flavor that melt beautifully during baking.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a greased baking tray or in a parchment-lined loaf pan.
Second Rise: Cover the shaped loaf and allow it to rise for another 30–40 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled.
Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it gently over the surface of the loaf. This gives the bread a beautiful golden and glossy crust. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese or herbs on top.
Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This allows the crumb to set and enhances the flavor.

Nutrients

Calories: ~280 kcal per slice (depending on cheese and loaf size)
Protein: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 300 mg
Calcium: 150 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The aromatic herbs complement the richness of the melted cheese, while the golden crust provides a satisfying crunch. It’s versatile—great on its own, for sandwiches, or alongside a warm bowl of soup. Its homemade aroma alone can make any meal feel special, and the process of kneading and baking is incredibly therapeutic.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Herb and cheese bread is inspired by traditional European baking, where aromatic herbs and local cheeses are often incorporated into daily bread. The concept combines the simplicity of a classic loaf with the robust flavors of Mediterranean cooking. This recipe is my take on a comforting, savory bread that is both approachable for home bakers and delightful for any occasion.

Ingredient Spotlight

The herbs in this bread, including oregano, thyme, and rosemary, infuse it with classic Mediterranean flavors, giving each loaf a fragrant, earthy aroma that elevates the simple act of eating bread into a sensory experience. Cheese, preferably a semi-hard variety like cheddar or a melty mozzarella, ensures gooey pockets throughout the loaf, adding richness and indulgence to every bite. Olive oil enhances the flavor, keeps the bread soft, and adds a subtle richness that complements the herbs perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. Slicing frozen bread and toasting individual pieces works well for sandwiches or a quick breakfast.

Common Variations to Try

This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for two to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze it for up to two months. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. Slicing frozen bread and toasting individual pieces works wonderfully for sandwiches or a quick breakfast, allowing you to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor any time.

There are several ways to vary this recipe to suit your taste. You can experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère, feta, or a spicy pepper jack, to add new layers of flavor. Adding nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped walnuts, introduces a pleasant crunch and extra nutrition. You can also swap out the herbs for basil, tarragon, or sage to create a slightly different aromatic profile, or add roasted garlic cloves or garlic powder for a more intense, savory version that garlic lovers will adore.

Pairing Recommendations

Health Benefits

This bread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements soups and stews, such as tomato basil or creamy mushroom soup, offering a hearty accompaniment. It works well with salads, providing a filling side for fresh greens and vegetables, or as part of sandwiches, paired with roasted vegetables, deli meats, or spreads. For breakfast, it’s delightful with butter, jam, or cream cheese, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Despite its indulgent taste, this bread offers several health benefits. The cheese adds protein, helping to support satiety and muscle health, while the herbs are packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals that promote overall wellness. Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health. Altogether, these elements create a bread that is not only delicious and comforting but also nourishing and satisfying.

Conclusion

Homemade Herb & Cheese Bread is a recipe that transforms a few simple ingredients into a delicious, aromatic loaf. Its soft, cheesy interior combined with a fragrant, golden crust makes it perfect for any meal or snack. This bread not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with the comforting aroma of fresh baking. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and delightful flavor profile make it a staple recipe you’ll return to again and again. By customizing the herbs, cheeses, and add-ins, you can create a unique loaf every time, ensuring this bread never gets boring. Baking this bread is more than making food; it’s creating warmth, flavor, and memories in your kitchen.

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