Print

Garlic and Herb Bread Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 1 review

This Garlic and Herb Bread is a flavorful and aromatic homemade bread recipe featuring a soft, springy dough infused with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfectly braided and baked to a golden, blistered crust, this bread makes a delicious accompaniment to any meal or a tasty snack on its own.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups plain all-purpose flour (weighed for accuracy)
  • 1.5 cups warm water (heated to 100–110°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (approximately 2¼ teaspoons)
  • 1 small spoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for richness)

Filling Ingredients

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (until fragrant)
  • 0.5 cups mixed fresh herbs, chopped (mostly parsley with a little thyme)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (split between mozzarella and sharp cheddar)
  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

  1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with warm water (100–110°F) and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until tiny bubbles form, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare the Dough: Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the bloomed yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to combine.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the mixture to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and springy to the touch.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the Filling and Shape Dough: Once risen, flatten the dough into a rectangle on a floured board. Spread the minced garlic evenly over the surface, then scatter the chopped herbs and shredded cheese on top. Press the filling gently into the dough.
  6. Roll and Braid: Roll the dough tightly from one long edge, then slice the roll lengthwise. Twist the two halves together into a loose braid shape, and place it on a baking sheet.
  7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough rests briefly.
  8. Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the braided dough’s surface with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.
  9. Bake: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the crust is blistered, golden brown, and tapping the bottom produces a hollow sound, indicating it is fully baked.
  10. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving to enjoy the full garlicky herb and cheesy aroma and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure the water temperature for proofing the yeast is between 100–110°F; too hot or too cold can kill or inhibit the yeast.
  • Knead the dough thoroughly for better gluten development and a springy texture.
  • You can substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs, but use about one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
  • For a crustier bread, bake directly on a preheated baking stone or tray; for a softer crust, bake on a parchment-lined sheet.
  • Allow the bread to cool before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness, or freeze for longer storage.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/garlic-and-herb-bread-recipe/