Rosemary Parmesan Bread 🥖🌿

This Rosemary Parmesan Bread is a delightful combination of savory rosemary and rich Parmesan cheese, creating a perfect companion for soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil. It's easy to make and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Ingredients

For the dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary (or 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the topping

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, dried rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Make the dough: Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

🥄 If the dough feels too sticky, add more flour a tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable. Alternatively, if it’s too dry, add a little warm water.

4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Shape the bread: Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto the floured surface again. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.

7. Final rise: Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again with the towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

8. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9. Prepare the topping: Once the dough has risen, brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top.

10. Bake: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

11. Cool and garnish: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.

🍞 This bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and it pairs exceptionally well with a wide array of dishes!

Variations

• Herb Infused: Incorporate other herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a bit of garlic powder for added flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Savory Swirl: Before shaping your loaf, roll out the dough and sprinkle a mixture of cheese and herbs on top before rolling it up for a lovely swirl effect.
• Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add a little xanthan gum for structure.

Enjoy your warm, aromatic Rosemary Parmesan Bread! 🌟