Let's Eat! Parmesan Pull Apart Loaf

About 1001 years ago when I did not cook, I had dinner at a family friends house and she made this bread. I LOVED it! I asked for the recipe (even though did not cook), and when she gave it to me I almost fainted...it took up the front and back of a recipe card...how was I supposed to make that? (I just used the sarcasm font, in case you are wondering.)

Soon, I actually tried it...it was a hit. Every time I make it I am asked for the recipe...and guess what it doesn't seem hard anymore.

Um, yes, my photo is L-A-M-E...but trust me, the bread is NOT!

My father in law was in town for the weekend and we had more family over and I decided to make this...and then realized...Wholly Cow...this is something I have not blogged about...so here ya go...

(Oh yeah...this is not on the Cinch plan!)

Oh, one more thing...this bread has an official title...so I will give you the real recipe and then share my variation.

Prosciutto Parmesan Pull Apart Loaf

(Prosciutto optional)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. Prosciutto (edited 1/19....never blog too late at night...you forget things)
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (or more depending on your taste) chopped fresh basil
• 1 Loaf of French or Italian Bread (I use the inexpensive bread the grocery store bakes daily...usually right by the check out lanes)

NOTES:

*More often than not I make this bread without Prosciutto...and sometimes without the Parmesan...I just use the Basil)

*You may use dried basil, but start with about 1 1/2 Tablespoons and adjust to you liking.

DIRECTIONS 

1.  Preheat oven to 375.

2.  Combine butter, chopped basil, prosciutto, and Parmesan in a bowl until thoroughly combined.
3.  With a bread knife (or serrated knife), cut the bread - BUT NOT ALL THE WAY THROUGH - on the diagonal. Try for 12 slices.

4.  Spread half the mixture into the 12+/- slices.

5.  Turn/Twist the loaf around and make another set of diagonal cuts - again NOT ALL THE WAY THROUGH - criss-crossing the first cuts.

6.  Spread the remaining mixture in these slices
7.  Place loaf on a sheet of aluminum foil and wrap the foil halfway up the sides of the bread.
8.  Bake for about 20-25 minutes. You will be able to see the crust turn golden and the melted butter.
9.  Remove from oven, place on a pretty platter and serve...guests just reach in and PULL IT APART!

This is a crowd-pleaser! Thanks to the ladies at preschool for helping me eat this loaf!