Italian Hero Loaf Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this delightful Italian Hero Loaf recipe, perfect for any occasion whether it’s a quick lunch or a satisfying snack. This versatile loaf allows for creativity, as you can personalize it with your favorite deli meats and cheeses. Whether you opt for classic Italian ingredients or mix it up with your preferred combinations, this recipe promises a delicious outcome every time. Discover the joy of baking with this recipe that’s been cherished for years!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 816.5 per serving
- Fat Content: 37.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 16.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 93.8mg
- Sodium Content: 2149.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 78g
- Fiber Content: 3.3g
- Sugar Content: 3.9g
- Protein Content: 38.5g
Keywords:
Cheese, Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Easy
Ingredients:
- 3 to 3 1/4 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet fast-rising yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1/4 pound ham
- 1/4 pound provolone cheese
- 1/4 pound mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour, sugar, fast-rising yeast, and salt, along with your preferred Italian seasoning for added flavor.
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Gradually add warm water and oil to the dry ingredients, using a whisk or mixer on low speed until well mixed.
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Incorporate the remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
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Knead the dough until smooth, approximately 3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 10 minutes, allowing the gluten to relax.
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Roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 14×10 inches, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
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Layer the deli meats and cheeses down the center third of the dough, from end to end, creating a delicious filling.
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Using a sharp knife, make slits on both outer thirds of the dough, spaced about one inch apart.
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Alternating sides, fold the strips over the filling at an angle, resembling a braided pattern.
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow the loaf to rise while the oven reaches the desired temperature.
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Once preheated, bake the loaf in the oven until golden brown, approximately 25 minutes, ensuring it is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Italian Hero Loaf, perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a satisfying meal on your own. Serve it warm for the ultimate indulgence!
| Cook Time | Prep Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 35 minutes |
Tips:
- Customize your Italian Hero Loaf with your favorite deli meats and cheeses for a personalized touch.
- Add extra toppings such as hot peppers, olives, or onions before braiding the loaf to enhance the flavor profile.
- Serve slices of the loaf with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat slices in the oven for a delicious meal later on.
