Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of baking with this scrumptious Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread! This easy recipe combines the aromatic essence of garlic with the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese and a handful of fresh herbs. Picture pulling a warm loaf from the oven, the golden crust crackling as you slice into it, releasing a fragrant steam that fills your kitchen. Perfect for dipping, as a side to your favorite pasta, or just for enjoying on its own, this bread is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center, then pour in the yeast mixture along with the melted butter.
- Mix the ingredients together until a dough begins to form, then knead it on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and mix in the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and Italian seasoning. Knead until these ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan. Cover it loosely and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Before baking, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes in the pan before slicing and serving warm.
Notes or Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding roasted garlic instead of raw garlic.
- To enhance the aroma, you can brush the top of the loaf with additional melted butter right before baking.
- If you prefer a crustier loaf, place a small dish of water in the oven while the bread bakes.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading is a vital step in bread-making, which helps develop gluten, giving the bread its wonderful texture. Make sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic; that’s when you’ll know it’s ready! Also, using warm water (not hot) helps activate the yeast without killing it, which is crucial for a good rise.
FAQ
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, you may need to add a bit more water to achieve the right dough consistency.
- How do I store leftover bread? Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is more than just a side dish — it’s an experience. With each bite, you get a wonderful blend of flavors and a texture that’s just heavenly. Whether you’re indulging in it fresh out of the oven or savoring it at dinner, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. So gather your ingredients and let’s bake some love into this delicious loaf!