Asiago Herb & Garlic Bread

Asiago Herb & Garlic BreadIngredients:6 cups all-purpose flour
1- 1/2 cups plus 2/3 cup grated Asiago cheese, divided
2 Tablespoons dry yeast
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 Tablespoon salt
1 Tablespoon dried Italian Seasoning
1 teaspoon dried Rosemary
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (Adjust up or down according to heat preference.)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
2 cups hot tap water (around 120-130 degrees)
4 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling


Directions:
-In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, salt, 1 1/2 cups Asiago and spices.
-Add hot water and use the dough hook to mix on low for three minutes. Continue to knead, using the dough hook, for an additional four minutes.
-Remove the dough from the bowl and form into a rough ball.
-Drizzle the mixing bowl with oil and return the dough, turning to coat both sides.
-Cover with a damp paper towel or tea towel, and allow the dough to rise for 15 minutes.
-Punch down the dough and divide into two equal portions, pulling the top of the dough down over the sides in tucking in the bottom to form a tight ball.
-Gently pat the dough rounds to flatten the tops.
-Place about 6 inches apart on an ungreased rimmed baking sheet.
-Using a sharp knife, cut a 1/4 inch deep X into the tops of the loaves.
-Drizzle about two tablespoons olive oil across the tops of each loaf and top each with 1/3 cup Asiago.
-Place a cake pan filled with hot water into the oven, and place the baking sheet on the rack above it.
-Turn the oven to 400° and set the timer for 40 minutes.
-The bread is done when it is a deep golden brown and may need up to ten additional minutes to reach that color.Source: Adapted from Foodie with Family