Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey into the world of home baking with this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread recipe! Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked bread seasoned with fragrant garlic and herbs. This bread is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also boasts a golden brown crust and a mouthwatering cheesy interior. Whether served alongside your favorite pasta, soup, or simply enjoyed with a slather of butter, this bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional melted butter (optional, for brushing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf or 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir gently until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic, feeling almost like a soft pillow in your hands.
- Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size and feels puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The anticipation is building!
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air. Gently fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to be nestled into the dough.
- Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into individual rolls, forming them gently with your hands.
- Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover again and let it rise for another 30 minutes, proving the dough a little more.
- If you desire extra richness, brush the top of the dough with melted butter just before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is gloriously golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- Remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle it with the chopped fresh parsley before serving, adding a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an even deeper flavor, consider adding crushed garlic cloves to the dough during the mixing process. If you prefer a softer crust, cover the bread with a kitchen towel as it cools. This will keep it tender. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses according to your taste!
Cooking Techniques
Understanding the importance of kneading is key to achieving the perfect texture. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the bread its structure and chewy quality. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial; this is when the yeast works its magic, helping the bread to rise and become light and airy.
FAQ
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape it into rolls or a loaf and freeze it before the second rise. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw and rise before baking as instructed.
What can I serve this bread with?
This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, soups, or can be enjoyed on its own as a delicious snack. It also makes a great addition to any bread basket at a dinner party!
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to share warmth and comfort with your loved ones. The process of making it is a joy in itself, and the reward is a loaf of homemade goodness sure to please any palate. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!