There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked Italian Herb Bread wafting through your kitchen.
This homemade bread is infused with fragrant basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme, creating a flavorful and rustic loaf that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re using it to soak up a rich pasta sauce, craft the perfect sandwich, or enjoy it as a simple snack with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this bread is a must-try.
With an easy-to-follow recipe and simple ingredients, you can bring the taste of an Italian bakery straight to your home!
Why You’ll Love This Italian Herb Bread
- Bursting with Italian flavors – The combination of fresh and dried herbs creates an aromatic and delicious loaf.
- Soft inside, crispy outside – The texture is perfectly balanced for sandwiches, dipping, or toasting.
- Versatile and customizable – Works well with whole wheat flour, added cheese, or even a touch of garlic.
- Beginner-friendly recipe – Simple steps make this an ideal bread for home bakers.
- Pairs well with everything – Serve it with pasta, soups, salads, or just warm with butter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar (helps activate the yeast)
For the Italian Herb Blend:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
For Topping (Optional):
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (for a richer taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and the Italian herb blend.
Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts coming together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or round boule. Place it on a lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and Parmesan (if using), and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy warm with olive oil, butter, or alongside your favorite meal!
Tips for Perfect Italian Herb Bread
- Use fresh herbs when possible – While dried herbs work well, fresh basil, oregano, rosemary, or thyme can enhance the flavor even more. Just double the quantity when using fresh.
- Check your yeast – Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t foam after 5-10 minutes in warm water, it may be expired.
- Knead the dough well – Proper kneading helps develop gluten, giving the bread its perfect chewy texture. Aim for 8-10 minutes of kneading.
- Let it rise in a warm place – A draft-free, slightly warm environment (like inside an oven with the light on) helps the dough rise properly.
- Don’t skip the second rise – This step ensures a light, fluffy interior instead of a dense loaf.
- Brush with olive oil before baking – This gives the crust a beautiful golden color and keeps it from drying out.
- Let it cool before slicing – Cutting too soon can release steam, making the bread gummy instead of light and airy.
How to Store and Freeze Italian Herb Bread
Storing at Room Temperature
- Keep the bread in a paper bag or loosely covered with a clean kitchen towel for up to 2 days to maintain a crisp crust.
- If storing longer, place it in an airtight container or plastic bag to retain moisture for up to 4 days.
Refrigerating (Not Recommended)
- Storing bread in the fridge can dry it out quickly. If necessary, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to minimize moisture loss.
Freezing Instructions
- Whole Loaf: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Sliced Bread: Slice the bread before freezing so you can easily grab individual pieces. Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
How to Reheat
- From the Freezer: Let the bread thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
- To Restore Crispiness: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or toast slices for a crunchy texture.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Italian Herb Bread is a delicious way to bring the warm, rustic flavors of Italy into your kitchen.
With its crispy crust, soft interior, and aromatic blend of herbs, this bread is a perfect addition to any meal.
Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, using it for sandwiches, or enjoying it with a drizzle of olive oil, this easy-to-make bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Try making it today and savor the homemade goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this bread without yeast?
Yes! You can use baking powder and yogurt or opt for a sourdough starter.
However, the texture will be denser compared to traditional yeast bread.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, but it may result in a slightly denser loaf.
Try using a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for the best texture.
3. How do I make this bread in a bread machine?
Simply add the wet ingredients first, followed by the dry ingredients and yeast, then set your bread machine to the basic bread cycle.
You can add the herbs during the kneading phase for even distribution.
4. Can I add cheese to this bread?
Yes! Adding Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar will give the bread a richer, cheesier flavor.
Mix about ½ cup of shredded cheese into the dough or sprinkle some on top before baking.
5. How can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add 1 tsp of xanthan gum if it’s not already included in the flour mix.
Keep in mind that gluten-free dough may require additional moisture and a longer rise time.
Italian Herb Bread
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Loaf Pan (9×5-inch)
- 1 Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer (optional)
- 1 Kitchen Towel (for covering dough during rise)
- 1 Baking Sheet (optional, for placing the pan)
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups 440g – All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp – Active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp – Salt
- 2 tbsp – Olive oil
- 1 ¼ cups 300ml – Warm water
- 1 tsp – Sugar
- 2 tbsp – Fresh rosemary or 1 tbsp dried
- 2 tbsp – Fresh thyme or 1 tbsp dried
- 1 tbsp – Fresh oregano or 1 tsp dried
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir to dissolve. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir in the herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano).
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 6 minutes.
- First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread: Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Adding fresh basil or parsley can give the bread a slightly different flavor profile.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more flour until it’s smooth but still soft. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
- Crispier Crust: For an extra-crispy crust, place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking to create steam.
- Freezing: This bread freezes well. After it cools, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
