Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon (13g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon (6g) salt
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (15g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (20g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons (8g) chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons (8g) chopped fresh oregano
- 1 tablespoon (4g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- Pinch of dried Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic (5-7 minutes).
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, basil, oregano, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Punch down the risen dough. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12x16 inches). Spread the herb and cheese filling evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log lengthwise down the center, leaving one end attached. Twist the two strands together, creating a beautiful swirl.
- Place the twisted bread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning (if using). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the bread cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm.