Description
Homemade easy herb bread brings Italian countryside charm straight to kitchen counters with rustic simplicity. Fragrant rosemary, thyme, and basil elevate this classic loaf, ensuring you savor each delectable slice of comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1–2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for coating the loaf pan)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (177°C) and preparing the baking vessel by coating an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and a light dusting of flour.
- Create the dry mixture by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and Italian seasoning in a mixing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Craft the liquid component by whisking together the egg, buttermilk, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, and rosemary in a separate container until well integrated.
- Merge the dry and wet ingredients gently, using a folding technique to combine without overworking the batter, which could result in a dense texture.
- Transfer the mixed batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface and generously sprinkling the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for an enhanced flavor profile.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, monitoring for a golden-brown exterior and checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should emerge clean when the bread is fully cooked.
- Allow the freshly baked herb bread to rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes, which helps stabilize its structure before carefully removing and serving while still warm.
Notes
- Choose high-quality herbs to enhance the bread’s aromatic profile and ensure maximum flavor impact.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a tender, light texture and prevent dense, tough bread.
- Swap buttermilk with Greek yogurt or regular milk mixed with lemon juice for a convenient alternative that keeps the bread moist.
- Customize the herb blend by experimenting with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to match your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Breakfast, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 2.7 g
- Sodium: 295 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg