1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the olive oil, salt, and 1 1/2 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
2. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Cheese and Herbs:
- While the dough is rising, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried Italian herbs, chopped parsley, and minced garlic in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
4. Shape the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Sprinkle the cheese and herb mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the dough up tightly from one of the long edges, like a jelly roll, pinching the seams to seal.
5. Final Rise:
- Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you like, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheese and fragrant herbs at their best.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Herb Bread:
- Mix and Match: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or fontina for unique flavors.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, like rosemary or chives, use them instead of dried herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Garlic Butter Finish: For an extra kick, brush the finished bread with garlic-infused melted butter.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side: Serve this bread alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads.
- Appetizer: Cut into smaller pieces and serve with marinara sauce or a creamy dip.
- Snack: Enjoy a slice or two as a comforting snack, especially when it’s still warm from the oven.
Storing and Reheating:
- Storing: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: To enjoy the bread warm again, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
This Cheesy Herb Bread is the perfect combination of soft, fluffy bread and rich, savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it to guests or indulging by yourself, this bread is sure to be a hit. The melted cheese and aromatic herbs make every bite a delicious experience. Enjoy!