Few things are as comforting and inviting as the aroma of freshly baked bread, and this Herb and Cheese Bread takes that experience to a whole new level! Imagine a soft, airy loaf infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh dill, parsley, green onions, and garlic, all crowned with gooey, melted cheddar cheese. This recipe guides you through creating a beautifully risen yeast dough, topped with an aromatic herb and olive oil blend, making it an irresistible treat that’s perfect alongside any meal, for dipping in soup, or simply enjoyed on its own. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this homemade masterpiece!
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (active) + 1.5 hours (resting/rising)
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 35 minutes – 2 hours 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pre-Ferment (Sourdough Starter / Levain):
- 1 tablespoon (10g) active dry yeast
- 5g sugar
- 1.5 cups (300ml) warm water
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
For the Dough:
- 2 tablespoons (20ml) olive oil
- 3.5 cups (420g) all-purpose flour
- 8g salt
For the Topping:
- 5-6 sprigs fresh dill, finely chopped
- 5-6 sprigs fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4 green onions (scallions), finely chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3g salt
- ⅓ cup (90ml, approximately 1 standard teaglass) olive oil
- Shredded cheddar cheese, desired amount (e.g., 1 to 1.5 cups)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Pre-Ferment (Starter):
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and yeast.
- Rest for Proofing: Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a frothy, foamy layer forms on top, indicating the yeast is active.
- Add Flour: Stir in the ½ cup of all-purpose flour until you have a smooth, thin batter.
- Cover and Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes. The mixture should double in volume and become bubbly. This step builds flavor and strength in your dough.
2. Prepare the Main Dough:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 3.5 cups of all-purpose flour and 8g of salt. Mix them well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture (your pre-ferment) and 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes. At first, it might be a bit sticky, but as you knead, it will become smooth, elastic, and less sticky.
- First Rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the kneaded dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Herb Topping:
- Combine Herbs & Oil: While the dough is on its first rise, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped dill, parsley, green onions, minced garlic, 3g salt, and ⅓ cup of olive oil. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Set aside.
4. Assemble and Bake the Bread:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet. You can shape it into a large, round loaf or divide it to form several smaller rolls or an elongated baguette shape.
- Add Topping: Evenly spread the prepared herb and olive oil mixture over the surface of the shaped dough. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the herb mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with the bread in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set a bit.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings)
Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, exact measurements of cheese/oil, and portion sizes.
- Calories: 300-400 kcal
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-25g (includes healthy fats from olive oil and cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Fiber: 2-4g
- Sodium: 400-600mg (adjustable with salt usage)
- Vitamins & Minerals: Provides B vitamins (from flour and yeast), Vitamin K (from herbs), Vitamin C (from herbs), and Calcium (from cheese).
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The concept of combining bread with herbs and cheese is a timeless culinary tradition found in various forms across the globe. From focaccia in Italy to herb-infused flatbreads in the Middle East and cheese-topped loaves in many European cultures, the pairing is universally beloved for its rich flavors and comforting qualities.
- Ancient Roots: Bread is one of humanity’s oldest prepared foods, and adding simple flavorings like herbs and animal fats (which evolved into cheese) would have been natural enhancements.
- Mediterranean Influence: The generous use of olive oil, fresh herbs like dill and parsley, and garlic in this recipe strongly hints at Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary inspiration, where fresh, aromatic ingredients are paramount.
- Comfort Food Status: Herb and cheese bread serves as a quintessential comfort food. It’s often enjoyed as part of a shared meal, symbolizing warmth and hospitality.
- Versatility: This bread can be enjoyed as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a light meal. Its broad appeal ensures its popularity in various settings.
This particular recipe creates a soft, flavorful loaf that’s both rustic and elegant, making it accessible to home bakers of all skill levels.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The fresh herbs, pungent garlic, and savory cheddar create a burst of deliciousness in every bite.
- Irresistible Aroma: The smell of this bread baking will fill your home with an incredibly inviting scent.
- Soft & Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the pre-ferment and proper kneading, the bread has a wonderful tender crumb.
- Crispy Crust: The top, with its melted cheese and herbs, gets wonderfully crispy and flavorful.
- Versatile: Perfect for pairing with soups, stews, salads, or simply as a standalone snack.
- Homemade Satisfaction: There’s immense satisfaction in baking your own bread, and this recipe delivers impressive results.
- Great for Sharing: This loaf is ideal for tearing and sharing among family and friends.
Health Benefits
While this is an indulgent bread, it still offers some nutritional value:
- Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, green onions, and garlic are packed with vitamins (especially K and C), minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and flavor.
- Olive Oil: A source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Yeast: Provides some B vitamins.
- Fiber: Whole wheat flour could be substituted for some of the all-purpose flour to increase fiber content, aiding in digestion.
- Calcium & Protein: Cheddar cheese provides calcium for bone health and a good source of protein.
Serving Suggestions
This Herb and Cheese Bread is incredibly versatile:
- Soup & Stew Companion: It’s the perfect accompaniment to hearty soups, chili, or stews for dipping.
- Side with Main Courses: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta dish.
- Appetizer: Cut into slices or cubes and serve as a pull-apart appetizer at parties.
- Sandwich Base: Use thicker slices for open-faced sandwiches with savory toppings.
- With Eggs: A slice alongside scrambled or fried eggs makes for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Water Temperature for Yeast: Ensure the water for the pre-ferment is warm (105-115°F or 40-46°C), not hot (which kills yeast) or cold (which won’t activate it).
- Not Letting Yeast Proof: Don’t skip the 5-10 minute wait for the yeast to foam. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old or the water temperature was off, and your bread won’t rise.
- Not Kneading Enough: Underextended dough will result in a dense, tough bread. Knead for the full 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Over-Flouring While Kneading: Use just enough flour to prevent sticking. Adding too much flour can make the dough stiff and the final bread dry.
- Impatient Rising: Yeast needs time and a warm environment to work. Don’t rush the rising steps; patience is key for light, airy bread.
- Overcooking: Keep an eye on the bread during the final minutes of baking to prevent the cheese or herbs from burning. The bread should be golden brown.
Pairing Recommendations
- Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a light-bodied Pinot Grigio, or even a dry Rosé would complement the fresh herb flavors. For reds, a light-bodied Beaujolais or a youthful Pinot Noir would work.
- Beer: A light lager, a wheat beer (Weissbier/Hefeweizen), or a pale ale would be refreshing with the savory bread.
- Non-Alcoholic: Freshly brewed iced tea, a simple sparkling water with a lemon slice, or even a homemade lemonade.
Cooking Tips
- Warm Place for Rising: For optimal rising, find a warm spot in your kitchen. This could be near a sunny window, on top of a warm oven, or even in a slightly warmed (turned off) oven.
- Proofing Oven: If your oven has a “proof” setting, use it for the rising steps. Otherwise, you can preheat the oven to its lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and let the dough rise inside with the door ajar.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: While dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch, fresh dill and parsley make a significant difference in the flavor of the topping.
- Garlic Punch: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. For a milder flavor, use fewer cloves or roast them lightly before mincing.
- Cheese Choice: While cheddar is specified, feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Brushing with Oil (Optional): For an extra golden crust, you can lightly brush the edges of the bread with a little olive oil before baking.
- Cool Before Slicing: It’s tempting to slice into warm bread immediately, but letting it cool slightly allows the internal structure to set and the cheese to firm up just enough for cleaner slices.
Similar Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed baking this Herb and Cheese Bread, you might also like to try:
- Garlic Knots: Small pieces of dough tied into knots, baked, and tossed with garlic, butter, and herbs.
- Focaccia: A flat Italian bread often topped with herbs, olive oil, and sometimes cheese or vegetables.
- Cheese Scones: Savory quick breads, often made with cheddar and chives.
- Pull-Apart Garlic Bread: Loaves of bread sliced and filled with garlic butter and and cheese, then baked until gooey.
Variations to Try
- Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb topping for a little heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with Parmesan, crumbled feta, provolone, or a mix of cheeses for the topping.
- Add Olives: Chopped black or green olives can be added to the herb topping for a briny kick.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) can be mixed into the herb topping for a sweet-tart note.
- Onion Options: Instead of green onions, you could use finely minced red onion or even sautéed caramelized onions in the topping for a different flavor profile.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle some sesame seeds over the cheese before baking for extra texture and nutty flavor.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute up to 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier, nuttier bread.
Ingredient Spotlight
- Active Dry Yeast: The powerhouse behind the rise! When activated with warm water and sugar, it produces carbon dioxide, creating the airy texture of the bread.
- Fresh Herbs (Dill & Parsley): These provide the vibrant, aromatic heart of the topping. Dill offers a unique, slightly grassy, and subtle anise flavor, while parsley adds a fresh, clean note. Using them fresh is key to the bread’s bright taste.
- Green Onions (Scallions): Offering a milder, sweeter onion flavor than traditional onions, green onions contribute a delicate pungency and freshness to the topping, harmonizing beautifully with the other herbs and garlic.
- Garlic: A fundamental aromatic, minced garlic infuses the olive oil topping with its pungent, savory essence, which mellows and sweetens slightly during baking, becoming incredibly fragrant and delicious.
- Cheddar Cheese: Chosen for its sharp, distinctive flavor and excellent melting properties, cheddar cheese creates a beautiful, bubbly, and savory crust on top of the bread, adding a layer of creamy indulgence.
Conclusion
This Homemade Herb & Cheese Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of baking and sharing. From the satisfaction of watching the dough rise to the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen and the delightful taste of each herb-infused, cheese-laden bite, this bread is a true culinary triumph. It’s a testament to how fresh ingredients and a little effort can create something truly extraordinary. So, gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and embark on the wonderful journey of baking this comforting and utterly delicious bread. It’s a treat your taste buds—and your loved ones—won’t soon forget!