Print

Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 81 reviews

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread combines fragrant roasted garlic, a blend of mixed herbs, and savory parmesan cheese for a stunning loaf that’s as delicious as it looks. Soft on the inside with a golden, buttery crust, this braided bread makes a perfect centerpiece for any meal or a flavorful snack. Baking this beautiful loaf from scratch requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, resulting in a bakery-quality bread with a homemade touch.

Ingredients

Scale

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 it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix dough: Stir in olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of flour into the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms, then gradually add the remaining flour as needed to form a workable dough.
  3. Knead dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes. Add the grated parmesan cheese halfway through kneading to evenly incorporate it into the dough.
  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 risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each into 14–16 inch ropes and braid them together. Tuck the ends underneath the loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second rise: Cover the braided loaf loosely and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
  7. Prepare to bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter and add any optional toppings like red pepper flakes or shredded mozzarella.
  8. Bake: Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • You can use either all-purpose flour or bread flour, but bread flour will give the loaf a chewier texture.
  • Roasting garlic before adding gives a sweeter, milder flavor; minced raw garlic offers a sharper taste.
  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Adding parmesan cheese inside the dough enhances the bread’s savory depth.
  • Optional toppings like red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, and mozzarella gives a melty cheesy layer.
  • This bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack with butter or dipping oil.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

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

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/garlic-herb-braided-bread-recipe/