Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread: A Savory Delight for Any Occasion

Herbed cheese-stuffed bread is the perfect addition to elevate any meal, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a tasty homemade treat. The combination of fluffy, homemade bread filled with a rich mix of cheeses and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. This bread offers the perfect balance of savory flavors and a soft, golden crust, making it ideal for sharing or enjoying on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread

Rich and Flavorful: With a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this bread is packed with cheesy goodness.
Herb-Infused: Fresh parsley and basil add aromatic and fresh notes to the filling.

Perfect for Any Meal: Whether served as a side, appetizer, or snack, this bread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Impressive Yet Simple: Though it looks intricate, the step-by-step process is straightforward and accessible even to beginners.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Brushing:

1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix and Knead: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Tip: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

Mix the Cheeses and Herbs: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley, basil, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: If you prefer more herbs, feel free to add a little extra basil or parsley to the filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread

Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large circle about 1/2 inch thick.
Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cheese and herb mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Shape the Bread: Cut the dough into 8 triangular segments, like slicing a pizza. Starting from the wide end of each triangle, roll it towards the point to form a crescent shape.
Arrange in Pan: Arrange the crescent-shaped rolls in a greased circular pan, with the points facing inward to form a ring.

Step 4: Final Rise and Bake

Second Rise: Cover the assembled bread with a cloth and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Egg Wash: Mix the beaten egg with milk and brush the mixture over the top of the bread.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown on top.

Tip: The egg wash gives the bread a beautiful golden color, so don’t skip this step!

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer: Slice and serve this herbed cheese-stuffed bread as part of an appetizer spread with dips or a charcuterie board.
Side Dish: Pair it with soups, pasta dishes, or salads for a comforting side.
Snack: Enjoy it on its own as a savory snack or light lunch with a salad.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor for this bread. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.
Warm Water for Yeast: Make sure the water for the yeast is warm, but not too hot, as this could kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising.
Be Patient with Rising: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for a light, fluffy texture. Don’t rush the process!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.

2. Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as gouda, feta, or cheddar for different flavors.

3. What can I use if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can substitute with dried herbs. Use half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh ones, since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

4. Can I freeze this bread?

Yes! After baking, allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

5. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Definitely! You can add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked bacon to the filling for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This herbed cheese-stuffed bread is a savory masterpiece that brings together the best of homemade bread with rich, cheesy filling and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this bread is sure to impress with its golden crust and flavorful filling. The versatility of the recipe allows for endless customization, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Enjoy the baking process, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful creation!