Tastiest Garlic Ciabatta Bread Recipe
Imagine biting into a piece of garlic ciabatta bread, fresh out of the oven. The crispy crust gives way to a soft, buttery interior, infused with the rich flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of parmesan cheese. This ciabatta bread recipe combines the classic characteristics of bread with the irresistible taste of garlic, making it the ultimate comfort food. Let's get baking!
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cup water (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil for a smoother butter mixture (optional)
- Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and instant yeast.
Slowly add the water and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 12-18 hours. The dough should double in size and have bubbles on the surface.
- Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and gently transfer the dough onto it.
Shape the dough into a rough rectangle. Fold it into thirds like a letter, then turn it and fold again.
Transfer the dough to a well-floured piece of parchment paper. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 2 hours.
- Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven to heat.
Gently slide the parchment paper with the dough onto the hot baking surface.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing.
- Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt. If desired, add a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil for a smoother mixture.
Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Prepare the Bread for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Using a serrated knife, cut the cooled ciabatta loaf into 1-inch thick slices. Be careful not to cut all the way through; keep the slices attached at the base like an accordion.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly between each slice of bread.
- Bake the Garlic Bread
Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the butter is melted and the bread is heated through.
For a crispier texture, open the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve
Remove the garlic bread from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil.
Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious homemade garlic ciabatta bread!
Have Fun Baking!