Italian Sweet and Savory Bread
Experience the irresistible harmony of flavors with this *Italian Sweet and Savory Bread*, a homemade loaf that combines the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese with a hint of honeyed sweetness. This artisan bread is crafted with simple ingredients like olive oil, all-purpose flour, and a touch of milk for extra tenderness, resulting in a perfectly golden, crusty exterior and soft, flavorful interior. A dash of sesame seeds or coarse sea salt on top adds the perfect finishing touch. Ideal as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or a charcuterie board, this versatile bread elevates any meal with its rustic charm. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires just 20 minutes of prep time—perfect for beginner or seasoned bakers looking to add a touch of Italy to their kitchen!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1.5 cups Warm water
- 3 tablespoons Honey
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Whole milk
- 1 large Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 teaspoons Optional: Sesame seeds or coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water. Add 1 tablespoon of honey and stir. Let this mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, remaining honey, and olive oil. Begin mixing the dough with a wooden spoon or your hands until it starts coming together.
Add the Parmesan cheese and chopped rosemary to the dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and knead briefly on a floured surface to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a round or long loaf, as desired, and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a greased loaf pan.
Cover the loaf again with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes until slightly puffed.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the risen loaf with a mixture of the beaten egg and whole milk to create a beautiful golden crust. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or coarse sea salt over the top.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Italian Sweet and Savory Bread warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2613 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 66.8 g | 86% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.7 g | 88% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 230 mg | 77% | |
| Sodium | 4319 mg | 188% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 423.9 g | 154% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.0 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 54.3 g | ||
| Protein | 76.6 g | 153% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 617 mg | 47% | |
| Iron | 24.7 mg | 137% | |
| Potassium | 827 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
