why make this recipe

Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is a delicious addition to any meal. It’s easy to make and fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma. This bread has a crispy crust and a soft, cheesy interior, making it perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or as a side with soups and salads. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and family with homemade bread.

how to make Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

Ingredients:

3½ cups all-purpose flour
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
1½ tsp salt
1¼ cups warm water (Make sure it’s warm, not hot.)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is recommended.)
¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (Add extra for sprinkling on top before baking, if desired.)

Directions:

Preparation

In a bowl, mix the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy.
In a larger bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to mix the dry ingredients.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough begins to form.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Baking

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
If desired, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Let the dough rest for another 30 minutes.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

how to serve Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

This bread is perfect for serving warm, right out of the oven. Slice it and enjoy it plain, or spread some butter or your favorite dip on top. It also pairs well with soups, salads, and pasta dishes. You can even use it for making garlic bread by toasting slices with butter and additional garlic.

how to store Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

To store this bread, let it cool completely and then wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. Keep it at room temperature, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

tips to make Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Make sure the water is warm but not hot; too hot can kill the yeast.
Kneading the dough properly helps create a nice texture.
Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs to the dough for variety.

variation

You can try adding different herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor. Some people like to mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

FAQs

How do I know if the yeast is active?
If the mixture of water and yeast is frothy after about 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture. You might need to adjust the amount of water as well.

How can I warm the water?
You can warm the water in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Check that it’s warm, not hot, before mixing with the yeast.