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Garlic Herb Braided Bread: 7 Flavorful Reasons to Bake This Stunning Loaf Today

Garlic Herb Braided Bread: 7 Flavorful Reasons to Bake This Stunning Loaf Today
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★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a stunning, flavorful loaf infused with garlic, mixed herbs, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating your everyday meals, its soft texture and aromatic crust make it irresistible. The braided design adds an elegant touch, and optional toppings like mozzarella and red pepper flakes allow for customization. Easy to make and delightful to eat, this bread is a must-bake for any home baker.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Dough 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

Flavorings

  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
  • 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, basil) or 2 tbsp fresh herbs
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Optional Add-ins and Toppings

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

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix dough ingredients: Stir in olive oil, minced or roasted garlic, herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of flour into the yeast mixture. Mix well until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour as needed to achieve the right consistency.
  3. Knead the dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 6–8 minutes. Add grated parmesan cheese halfway through the kneading process to incorporate it evenly.
  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 place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
  5. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each part into a rope about 14–16 inches long. Braid the three ropes together, tuck the ends underneath, and place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second rise: Cover the braided dough loosely and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes, allowing it to become puffy.
  7. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and optionally sprinkle red pepper flakes, shredded mozzarella, and garnish with fresh parsley.
  8. Bake the bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and the bread smells fragrant. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Warm water should ideally be between 105°F to 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • For a more intense garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the dough.
  • Use bread flour for a chewier texture, or all-purpose flour for a softer crumb.
  • Optional toppings like mozzarella and red pepper flakes add extra flavor but can be omitted for a classic taste.
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for a soft, flavorful crust.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/garlic-herb-braided-bread-7-flavorful-reasons-to-bake-this-stunning-loaf-today/