In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add melted butter and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, fresh herbs, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Roll each ball in the garlic herb mixture to coat evenly.
Grease a bundt pan or a round cake pan and layer the coated dough balls in the pan, stacking them on top of each other. Let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the bread with melted butter. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a serving platter. Brush with additional melted butter if desired.
Notes
Serve warm with marinara or garlic butter for dipping.