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Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe

4.5 from 105 reviews

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe creates an artisan-style loaf that combines crispy, golden crust with a soft, flavorful interior. Infused with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and optional fresh herbs, this bread is simple to make with a long overnight rise, resulting in a delicious homemade bread perfect for any meal or as a savory 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

Flavor Additions

  • 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 together the flour, salt, and sugar until evenly distributed.
  2. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
  3. Mix Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients, add olive oil, and stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
  4. Add Parmesan and Garlic: Fold in the grated parmesan cheese and minced garlic. Optionally add chopped fresh rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.
  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 or overnight until it doubles in size and is bubbly.
  6. Shape Dough: After rising, gently transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf, being careful not to overwork it to preserve its airy texture.
  7. Preheat and Rest: Place the shaped dough onto parchment paper, let it rest for 30 minutes; simultaneously preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven to preheat as well.
  8. Score Dough: Using a sharp knife or lame, score the top of the dough to allow for expansion during baking.
  9. Bake Covered: Carefully transfer the dough with parchment paper into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
  10. Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Cool: Remove bread from the oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing to set the texture.

Notes

  • The long rise time enhances flavor and texture, so do not rush this step.
  • Warm water should be around 110°F (43°C) to effectively activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Using a Dutch oven helps create steam for a crispy crust, but you can bake on a baking stone or sheet if needed—just expect a slightly different crust texture.
  • Feel free to customize with herbs like rosemary or parsley for additional aroma and taste.
  • Letting the bread cool fully before slicing prevents a gummy interior.

Keywords: parmesan garlic bread, artisan bread, homemade bread, easy garlic bread, overnight bread dough