Description
This Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a flavorful homemade loaf featuring a perfect blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs. Soft and chewy on the inside with a golden crust, this bread is ideal for serving alongside meals or enjoying on its own as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping and Garnish
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing after baking)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating yeast activation.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: Add flour, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese and knead the dough for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Finishing Touches: Brush the hot bread with melted butter and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top. Let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature is about 110°F (43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading the dough sufficiently is essential for a soft and elastic texture.
- Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save time and effort on kneading if desired.
- The fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds a lovely fresh flavor and color.
- Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
