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Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe

4.9 from 170 reviews

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe features an easy artisan-style loaf made with simple ingredients like parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. The dough is left to rise overnight for a light, airy texture, then baked in a hot Dutch oven for a golden crust and tender crumb. A fragrant, cheesy, and savory bread perfect for any meal or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/4 cups (390g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (around 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil

Flavorings

  • 1 cup (100g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 23 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar thoroughly.
  2. Activate yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons active dry yeast in 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C) and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Mix dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, add 2 tablespoons olive oil, and stir with a wooden spoon until the dough is sticky but combined.
  4. Add flavorings: Fold in 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2–3 cloves minced garlic, and if using, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or parsley.
  5. First rise: Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 12–18 hours (overnight), until doubled in size and bubbly.
  6. Shape dough: Transfer the risen dough to a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf, being careful not to overwork it.
  7. Preheat oven and rest dough: Place the dough on parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven to preheat.
  8. Score dough: Using a sharp knife, score the top of the dough to allow expansion during baking.
  9. Bake covered: Place the parchment with dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
  10. Bake uncovered: Remove the lid and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  11. Cool: Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to set the texture.

Notes

  • For best results, use a Dutch oven for baking to create steam and ensure a crispy crust.
  • Do not skip the long rise time; it enhances flavor and texture.
  • Cooling the bread completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and prevents a gummy crumb.
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley add a lovely aromatic touch but are optional.
  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Keywords: Parmesan garlic bread, artisan bread, homemade bread, easy garlic bread, Dutch oven bread, overnight dough