Garlic and Herb Bread Recipe

Introduction

Garlic and Herb Bread is a deliciously fragrant and cheesy loaf perfect for sharing with family and friends. This recipe combines fresh herbs, garlic, and a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for a flavorful twist on classic bread. It’s wonderfully soft inside with a golden, crispy crust.

Ingredients

• 4 cups plain all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups warm water (100–110°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons)
• 1 small spoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup mixed fresh herbs, chopped (mostly parsley with a little thyme)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (half mozzarella, half sharp cheddar)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Proof the yeast by dissolving it in warm water and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes until tiny bubbles appear.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Pour in the bloomed yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and springy.
4. Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Step 5: On a floured board, flatten the risen dough into a rectangle.
6. Step 6: Spread the minced garlic evenly over the dough, then scatter the chopped herbs and shredded cheese on top.
7. Step 7: Gently press the filling into the dough, then roll it tightly from one long edge.
8. Step 8: Slice the roll lengthwise down the middle and twist the two halves together into a loose braid.
9. Step 9: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the braided dough with olive oil.
10. Step 10: Bake for 20–30 minutes until the crust is blistered and golden brown.
11. Step 11: Tap the bottom of the loaf; a hollow sound indicates it is fully baked.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of your favorite fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to customize the flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or substitute with vegan cheese alternatives.
• Adding a pinch of chili flakes to the garlic layer provides a subtle spicy kick.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the bread with foil halfway through baking.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm slices in a toaster or oven for a few minutes. You can also freeze the bread wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature before reheating.

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 by mixing it directly with the flour and reducing the water slightly. You may also find the rising time is shorter.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy. Gently pressing a finger into the dough should leave a slight indentation that slowly springs back.

Garlic and Herb Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 724 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 servings) 1x

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Description

This Garlic and Herb Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf combining freshly minced garlic, mixed herbs, and a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses. The soft, springy dough is enriched with olive oil and baked to a golden, blistered crust, making it perfect as a savory snack or accompaniment to meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough

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

Filling

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 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

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Instructions

1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with warm water (100-110°F) and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until tiny bubbles form, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt. Pour in the bloomed yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and springy.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise at room temperature until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
5. Shape and Fill: After the dough has risen, flatten it into a rectangle on a floured board. Evenly spread the minced garlic over the surface, scatter the chopped herbs, and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese.
6. Roll and Braid: Gently press the filling into the dough, then roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other. Slice the roll lengthwise down the middle, and twist the two halves together loosely to form a braid.
7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
8. Prepare for Baking: Place the braided dough onto a baking sheet, brush the surface generously with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.
9. Bake: Bake the bread for 20-30 minutes until the crust is blistered and golden brown. To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.
10. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

• Ensure the water used for proofing the yeast is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast—100-110°F is ideal.
• For a more intense herb flavor, increase the amount of fresh herbs slightly or add herbs like rosemary or basil.
• Mixing mozzarella with sharp cheddar provides a nice balance of creaminess and tang.
• Brush the bread with olive oil instead of butter for a lighter crust with a distinct flavor.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Garlic bread, Herb bread, Cheese bread, Homemade bread, Savory bread, Baked garlic herb loaf