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Crusty Italian Parmesan Bread

If you're looking for a **golden, crispy loaf with a soft, airy interior**, this **Crusty Italian Parmesan Bread** is the perfect homemade bread recipe. Infused with **savory Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and Italian herbs**, this rustic-style bread is delicious on its own, served with soup, or used for sandwiches.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • #### **For the Bread Dough**
  • - 3 1/2 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
  • - 1 packet 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • - 1 teaspoon sugar
  • - 1 1/4 cups warm water 110°F
  • - 1 teaspoon salt
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • - 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • #### **For Topping Optional**
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • - Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Wooden spoon or stand mixer
  • - Baking sheet or Dutch oven
  • Parchment paper
  • - Sharp knife or bread lame

Method
 

  1. #### **Step 1: Activate the Yeast**
  2. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for **5-10 minutes** until foamy.
  3. #### **Step 2: Mix the Dough**
  4. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, oregano, and Parmesan.
  5. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms.
  6. #### **Step 3: Knead the Dough**
  7. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for **8-10 minutes** until smooth and elastic.
  8. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for **1 hour**, or until doubled in size.
  9. #### **Step 4: Shape & Second Rise**
  10. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oval loaf.
  11. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  12. Cover loosely and let rise for **30 minutes**.
  13. #### **Step 5: Bake the Bread**
  14. Preheat oven to **425°F (220°C)**.
  15. Brush the loaf with olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and lightly dust with garlic powder.
  16. Score the top with a sharp knife and bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until golden brown.
  17. #### **Step 6: Cool & Serve**
  18. Let cool for at least **10 minutes** before slicing.
  19. Enjoy warm with butter, olive oil, or as a side for pasta!