Description
This Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread recipe combines fragrant herbs, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful homemade bread that will impress your family and guests. Soft on the inside with a golden crust, this herb-infused loaf is perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying on its own.
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 (plus extra for topping)
Finishing
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing after baking)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Butter: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Mix well until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the dough. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet or inside a loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25–30 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the bread is cooked through.
- Finish and Cool: Remove the bread from the oven, brush the top with melted butter, and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Allow the bread to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure your water is warm (about 110°F or 43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- For a crispier crust, bake directly on a preheated baking stone or steel if available.
- You can substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs, using about three times the amount for more vibrant flavor.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Feel free to experiment by adding minced garlic or other cheeses like mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
