Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a fragrant and flavorful loaf perfect for any meal. Soft on the inside with a golden crust, it features garlic, mixed herbs, and parmesan for a savory twist. Braiding the dough adds an impressive touch that’s easier than you might think.

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)
• Optional add-ins:
  • 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 yeast on top and let sit 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 remaining flour as needed.
3. Step 3: Knead dough by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes. Add parmesan halfway through kneading.
4. Step 4: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
5. Step 5: Punch down dough and divide into 3 equal parts. Roll each into 14–16 inch ropes. Braid the ropes, tuck ends underneath, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
7. Step 7: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter and add any optional toppings if desired.
8. Step 8: Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes inside the dough or on top before baking.
• Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or basil if you prefer a brighter herbal flavor.
• Adding shredded mozzarella inside the braid creates a gooey, cheesy center.
• Brush the bread with garlic-infused butter instead of plain melted butter for extra aroma.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaf wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crust crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Use the same amount but mix it directly with the flour, skipping the proofing step with warm water.

How do I ensure my bread dough rises properly?

Make sure your water is warm (around 110°F) but not hot, or it can kill the yeast. Also, let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm spot for the best results.

Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe

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4.5 from 96 reviews

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a delightful homemade loaf infused with aromatic garlic, mixed herbs, and a savory touch of parmesan cheese. Soft and fluffy on the inside with a golden crust, it’s perfect for serving warm alongside soups, salads, or as a flavorful sandwich base. The braided shape adds an elegant presentation, while optional toppings like mozzarella and red pepper flakes allow for tasty customization.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 1 braided loaf (serves 8) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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)

Optional Add-ins

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix Dough: Stir in the olive oil, minced or roasted garlic, mixed herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of the flour. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms, then gradually add the remaining flour as needed to achieve a workable dough.
3. Knead Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes. When halfway through kneading, incorporate the grated parmesan cheese to evenly distribute its flavor.
4. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Shape and Braid: Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each into 14–16 inch ropes, then braid them together. Tuck the ends underneath and place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Second Rise: Cover the braided loaf loosely and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes to become puffy.
7. Prepare to Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter to promote browning and flavor. Add optional toppings like mozzarella, red pepper flakes, or parsley if desired.
8. Bake: Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Use warm water around 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• Adjust flour quantity slightly if the dough feels too sticky or too dry during mixing.
• For extra flavor, try roasting the garlic before adding it to the dough.
• Optional toppings add flavor and texture but can be omitted for a classic herb bread.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Garlic herb bread, braided bread, homemade bread, parmesan bread, garlic bread, herb loaf, Italian bread