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Freshly baked Rosemary Cheese Bread with herbs and melted cheese

Rosemary Cheese Bread

A comforting and flavorful bread made with fresh rosemary and Gruyere cheese, perfect for pairing with soups or as a base for sandwiches.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 3 cups Bread Flour Provides structure and chew; all-purpose flour can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; sea salt adds a nice touch!
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds subtle heat; optional but recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Active Dry Yeast Ensure it’s fresh to avoid a dense loaf.
  • 1 cup Gruyere Cheese, grated Dreamy, nutty flavor; swap with cheddar for a different twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Freshly Chopped Rosemary Earthy flavor; dried rosemary works, but fresh is best!
  • 1.5 cups Lukewarm Water Avoid hot water to prevent killing the yeast.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornmeal For a delightful crust and prevents sticking; can use flour as a substitute.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, yeast, and 3/4 cup of the cheese, along with the rosemary. Stir with a whisk.
  2. Slowly pour in the lukewarm water, mixing with a wooden spoon until a ball of dough forms.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it set on the counter overnight, for 8-24 hours.
Shaping & Rising
  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With well-floured hands, shape it into a ball.
  2. Place the dough into a smaller, lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a tea towel and let it rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 450ºF, with a 4 to 6-quart Dutch oven positioned on the lower rack.
  2. Once the dough has risen, sprinkle cornmeal generously in the Dutch oven. Carefully place the dough inside, topping with the remaining cornmeal.
  3. Cover the pot and return it to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the lid, sprinkle with the remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  5. Turn the bread out onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.

Notes

For an even more flavorful bread, infuse olive oil with garlic and brush it on before baking. Add sundried tomatoes or olives for an extra flavor boost.