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Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a simple, rustic loaf that delivers a rich and savory flavor without complex techniques. The combination of pungent garlic, salty Parmesan, and classic herbs creates a bread that is impossibly soft on the inside with a beautifully golden, buttery crust. It's the perfect homemade bread to serve alongside any meal or as an appetizer on its own.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 cup warm water (about 100-110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 to 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for topping)

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for a minute or two. You should see it start to get a little foamy on top, which is a great sign that your yeast is active and ready to go.
  2. Mix the Flavorings: Stir in the salt, chopped garlic, dried rosemary, basil, and oregano. Mix until everything is well blended and the water is fragrant with herbs and garlic.
  3. Form the Dough: Add 2 cups of the all-purpose flour and the grated parmesan cheese to the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead and Adjust: Gradually add more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, while mixing (or kneading on a lightly floured surface) until the dough becomes soft, stretchy, and is no longer overly sticky. It should be smooth and elastic.
  5. First Rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough inside, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Preheat and Prepare: Towards the end of the rising time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
  7. Shape the Loaves: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
  8. Second Rise: Cover the loaves loosely with the towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes. They'll get a little puffy.
  9. Add Topping: Gently brush the melted butter over the tops of each dough round. This will give them a beautiful golden color and a delicious, rich crust.
  10. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18-20 minutes. The bread is done when the tops are a deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when you tap the bottom.
  11. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer the loaves to a wire cooling rack. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This bread is absolutely divine served warm with extra butter.

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic and grate your own Parmesan cheese. The amount of flour needed can vary, so add the last half-cup gradually. Let the dough rise in a warm place to ensure a good rise. Don't skip brushing the loaves with melted butter before baking for a golden-brown crust. Active dry yeast or bread flour can be used as substitutes.