Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread (Printable Version)

Rustic loaf with golden crust and tender crumb, infused with parmesan and garlic for bakery-quality results.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dough

01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons salt
03 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
04 - 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
05 - 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Add-ins

07 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Mix thoroughly to distribute evenly.
02 - In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy and activated.
03 - Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
04 - Fold in the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and optional herbs. Stir until evenly incorporated throughout the dough.
05 - 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.
06 - Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface. Gently shape into a round loaf, handling lightly to retain airiness.
07 - Place the loaf on parchment paper and let rest for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 450°F, placing a Dutch oven inside to heat.
08 - Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame in a decorative pattern to allow for expansion.
09 - Using oven mitts, carefully transfer the dough with parchment into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake for 30 minutes.
10 - Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes, until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11 - Transfer to a wire rack and cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to preserve texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The overnight ferment develops deep flavor that feels impossible to achieve with quick bread methods
  • That Dutch oven steam creates a crust so crackly and perfect, youll feel like you secretly trained in a professional bakery
02 -
  • Sticky dough can feel wrong but resist adding more flour or you'll lose that tender crumb
  • A thoroughly preheated Dutch oven is non-negotiable for that bakery-quality crust
03 -
  • Grate your own Parmesan fresh from the block for superior melting and distribution
  • Score the dough with confidence but don't go too deep or the bread will deflate
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