Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf perfect for sharing. Soft inside with a golden crust, it combines garlic, herbs, and cheese for a delicious homemade treat.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
• 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, basil) or 2 tbsp fresh
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Step 2: Stir in olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of flour. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour as needed.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes, adding the parmesan cheese halfway through kneading.
4. Step 4: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Step 5: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each into 14–16 inch ropes and braid them together. Tuck the ends underneath and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Cover loosely and let the braided loaf rise again for 30–40 minutes.
7. Step 7: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and mozzarella if desired.
8. Step 8: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly before slicing and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• For deeper garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before adding to the dough.
• Substitute parmesan with asiago or pecorino for a different cheesy note.
• Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough for extra flavor.
• Use fresh herbs if available; adjust quantities to taste.
• Brush the baked loaf with garlic butter for an extra indulgent finish.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and slightly crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well for this recipe, though bread flour will give a slightly chewier texture.

How do I know if the yeast is still active?

If the yeast mixture foams within 10 minutes of combining with warm water and sugar, the yeast is active and ready to bake.

Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 125 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf, serves 8 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a flavorful and visually stunning homemade loaf, perfect for any meal or special occasion. Infused with aromatic garlic, mixed herbs, and rich parmesan cheese, this braided bread combines a soft, fluffy crumb with a slightly crispy golden crust. Topped with melted butter and optional mozzarella and red pepper flakes, it offers a delightful blend of savory tastes and textures that will impress both family and guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, basil) or 2 tbsp fresh
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella (optional)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Garnish

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough: Stir in olive oil, minced or roasted garlic, mixed herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of flour into the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms, then gradually incorporate the remaining flour as needed to bring the dough together.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes. Add the grated parmesan cheese halfway through kneading to evenly distribute the flavor.
4. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 3 equal parts and roll each into 14–16 inch ropes. Braid the three ropes together and tuck the ends underneath to secure the shape. Place the braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Second Rise: Cover the braided dough loosely and allow it to rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffed.
7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf generously with melted butter. Sprinkle the red pepper flakes and shredded mozzarella on top if using, for added flavor and texture.
8. Bake the Bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread smells fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the warm bread before slicing and serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh herbs for dried, but reduce fresh herbs to 2 tablespoons.
• Garlic may be minced raw or roasted for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• If dough feels too sticky, add flour gradually, but avoid adding too much to keep the bread soft.
• Letting the bread cool before slicing helps maintain the shape and texture.
• The optional toppings of mozzarella and red pepper flakes add a spicy, cheesy flavor but can be omitted or substituted according to preference.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side dish, Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Keywords: Garlic herb bread, braided bread, homemade bread, garlic bread recipe, herb bread, parmesan bread, easy bread recipe