Herb Parmesan Bread
Herb Parmesan Bread is a visually stunning wreath featuring aromatic herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a crisp crust, perfect for gatherings or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brush the frozen loaf with 1 tablespoon of margarine.
- Cover the loaf and let it thaw at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours or in the refrigerator for 6 to 10 hours.
- Sprinkle the loaf with 1/3 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Knead until well blended.
- Cut the dough into thirds.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each third into a 25-inch rope.
- Braid the ropes together.
- Invert a 10-ounce custard cup on a greased baking sheet and grease the cup.
- Shape the braid into a wreath around the cup.
- Pinch the ends together to seal.
- Brush with the remaining margarine.
- Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and basil.
- Let the bread rise for 35 to 45 minutes until doubled in size.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and done.
- Remove from the oven, transfer to a rack, and cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough before braiding. If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Remember to let the dough rise in a warm spot to ensure it doubles in size for a fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Herb Parmesan Bread pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup, making it a perfect side for a cozy dinner. Consider serving it alongside Marci'S Sweet Potato Casserole for a comforting meal. It’s also delightful with dips or spreads for a snack or appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Parmesan Bread contains roughly 174 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 17g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread dough instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh bread dough instead of frozen. Just skip the thawing step and proceed with the recipe as usual. Fresh dough may rise differently, so keep an eye on it while baking.
What if I don’t have margarine?
If you don't have margarine, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or olive oil. Both will add richness and flavor to the bread, enhancing its overall taste.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the Herb Parmesan Bread vegan, use a plant-based margarine and replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).