Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

Delicious Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

Bread is one of those wonderful foods that can bring comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Among the many types of bread, artisan bread stands out with its crusty exterior and soft, flavorful interior. When you add the distinctive flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic, you create something truly special. This Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is not only easy to make at home, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for a slice. You don’t need to be a professional baker to enjoy the warm, fresh taste of homemade bread. This recipe invites you to experience the joy of baking and rewards you with a loaf that pairs well with any dish or can be enjoyed on its own.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own bread has many advantages. First, there’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home—it creates a cozy atmosphere and elevates your cooking experience. Moreover, homemade bread tastes fresher and more flavorful than store-bought alternatives. By choosing this Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread recipe, you indulge in a delicious treat that is simple yet sophisticated.

This bread is versatile as well. It works wonderfully as a side dish for soups and salads, acts as a fantastic base for sandwiches, and even holds its own when served simply with butter or olive oil. Plus, there’s a sense of accomplishment that comes with making bread from scratch. You can customize it to your taste, use your favorite ingredients, and enjoy fresh bread on your own terms. If you’re looking for something to warm your heart and fill your belly, this Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is the perfect choice.

How to Make Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

Baking bread might seem intimidating, but this recipe breaks it down into easy steps. Following these instructions will give you a beautiful loaf with a crispy crust, a soft interior, and delightful flavor. Let’s gather the needed ingredients and get started!

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that your yeast is active.

2. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour and salt.

3. Mix the dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.

4. Knead the dough: Dust a clean surface with flour and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.

5. Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This process usually takes about 1 hour.

6. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).

7. Shape the bread: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Add oil and cheese: Brush the top of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle on additional Parmesan cheese if you desire. This will add an extra layer of flavor and create a nice crust.

9. Bake the bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bread is done when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cool and slice: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. If you want, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

Serving your homemade Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread can be just as delightful as making it. There are several ways to enjoy this tasty bread:

• As a side dish: Pair slices of this bread with soups, salads, or pasta. It complements flavors beautifully and adds a comforting touch to any meal.

• For sandwiches: Use this bread as a base for delicious sandwiches. The crusty exterior and flavorful interior make it an excellent choice for all types of fillings, from classic deli meats to gourmet veggie spreads.

• With dips and spreads: Slice the bread and serve it with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite dips like hummus. The addition of garlic and Parmesan makes it a tasty partner for a variety of flavors.

• As a snack: Enjoy slices with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese. It’s perfect for those times when you crave a little something but don’t want a full meal.

How to Store Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

After all the hard work of baking, you’ll want to ensure your bread stays fresh for as long as possible. Here are some tips to store your Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread:

• Room temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a few days, store it at room temperature. Place it in a breadbox, a paper bag, or wrap it in a linen cloth to keep it fresh. Avoid plastic wrap as it can make the crust soft.

• Freezing: If you want to keep the bread for a longer period, you can freeze it. Allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Alternatively, place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, thaw at room temperature.

• Reheating: To refresh stale bread, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy crust.

Tips to Make Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

To ensure your bread turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Check the yeast: Always ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If your yeast does not bubble or foam after mixing it with warm water and sugar, discard it and start with a new packet.

• Knead thoroughly: Proper kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour as needed while kneading.

• Don’t rush the rising: Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential. A warm, draft-free environment helps the yeast work its magic, so be patient during this step.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to modify the recipe by adding herbs, cheese varieties, or different spices. Rosemary, oregano, or even chili flakes can enhance the flavor profile of your bread.

Variation

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider trying these variations:

• Cheese variations: Swap the Parmesan cheese for a different variety, such as Asiago or Cheddar, for a different flavor.

• Herb-infused bread: Add dried herbs like thyme or basil into the dough for an aromatic twist, appealing to herb lovers.

• Stuffed bread: Before shaping the loaf, spread a layer of your favorite pesto or tapenade. Roll it up and bake for a flavorful, stuffed variation.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour. The texture and flavor will differ slightly, so adjust the water as needed for the dough’s consistency.

What if my bread doesn’t rise?

If your bread doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Always ensure your yeast is fresh. A warm environment also helps yeast to rise. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a heating source.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, shape it and allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Making Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread at home is a wonderfully rewarding experience. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful loaf that will impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to get started and enjoy the delicious results of your hard work! Happy baking!

Delicious Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

---

• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This easy-to-make Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread features a crispy crust and a flavorful, soft interior, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

---

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture. Stir in Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
4. Dust a clean surface with flour and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
7. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush the top of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Store at room temperature in a breadbox or paper bag for a few days. Freeze for longer storage, and reheat in the oven to refresh.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: artisan bread, parmesan, garlic, homemade bread, baking