Save Bring the bakery to your home kitchen with this Perfect Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread. This rustic, flavorful loaf features a golden crust and a tender, cheesy, garlicky crumb that is sure to impress.
Save This easy artisan bread yields a loaf with 8–10 slices, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Its vegetarian-friendly profile ensures it can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups (390 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons (7 g) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 3
- Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
- Step 4
- Fold in the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and optional herbs. Stir until evenly incorporated.
- Step 5
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 12–18 hours, or overnight, until doubled and bubbly.
- Step 6
- Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface. Gently shape into a round loaf, handling lightly to retain airiness.
- Step 7
- Place the loaf on a piece of parchment paper. Let rest for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C), placing a Dutch oven inside to heat.
- Step 8
- Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame.
- Step 9
- Using oven mitts, carefully transfer the dough (with parchment) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 10
- Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes, until golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Step 11
- Transfer to a wire rack and cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Dont rush the rise; an overnight ferment develops better flavor and texture. Remember that a sticky dough yields a softer, airier crumb, so avoid adding excess flour. For the best results, ensure you preheat your Dutch oven thoroughly to achieve a crisp crust.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Scoring the dough not only helps with expansion but also gives it that signature artisan look. Feel free to try other cheeses like Asiago or Gruyère, or experiment with different fresh herbs to discover new flavor profiles.
Serviervorschläge
This bread is best served warm with butter or a side of olive oil. It is also an excellent choice for mopping up sauces from soups or pasta dishes.
Save Whether paired with a hearty meal or enjoyed on its own, this Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is a vegetarian delight that brings professional quality to your table. Enjoy your fresh, homemade bake!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I reduce the rising time?
While technically possible, the extended fermentation is crucial for developing flavor and texture. A shorter rise will result in less complex taste and denser crumb structure.
- → What if I don't have a Dutch oven?
A heavy oven-safe pot with tight-fitting lid works equally well. Alternatively, bake on a baking stone and create steam by placing a pan of hot water on the lower rack.
- → Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
Fresh garlic provides superior flavor and moisture distribution. If using garlic powder, reduce to 1 teaspoon and add it directly to the dry ingredients.
- → Why is my dough so sticky?
A slightly sticky dough is intentional and desirable for this method. Excess flour creates dense loaves. Use wet hands or a floured surface when handling.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in plastic or store in an airtight bag at room temperature for 2–3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze for up to 3 months.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative. The texture will remain similar, though flavor profile will shift slightly.