This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a beautiful, savory loaf made with soft dough, roasted garlic, parmesan, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for dinner tables, gifting, or simply enjoying slice by slice, this bread is an irresistible treat that will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Aromatic and Flavorful: The combination of roasted garlic, herbs, and parmesan creates a mouthwatering aroma and rich flavor.
Visually Stunning: The braided design makes this bread not only delicious but also a showstopper for any occasion.
Soft and Fluffy: The dough is soft, light, and perfectly textured with every bite.
Versatile: Serve it as a side, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own with a dip.
Great for Gifting: This bread makes for a thoughtful and homemade gift.

Garlic Herb Braided Bread

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
3–4 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
1 tablespoon dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, basil) or 2 tablespoons fresh
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

Optional Add-ins:

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough: Stir in olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and 2 ½ cups of flour. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes. Add the parmesan halfway through kneading.
First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each part into a 14–16 inch rope and braid them together. Tuck the ends underneath and place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise: Cover the loaf loosely and let it rise for 30–40 minutes, or until puffy.
Preheat and Brush: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or shredded mozzarella for extra flavor.
Bake: Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including rising times)

Variations

Garlic Butter: For a richer flavor, substitute olive oil with garlic butter in the dough.
Twisted Ring: Form the dough into a twisted ring shape for a fun and festive presentation.
Herb Variations: Try using rosemary, sage, or a combination of your favorite fresh herbs.
Cheese Variation: Add additional cheese like mozzarella to the dough for extra gooeyness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the braided bread in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Reheat by wrapping it in foil and baking at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven or microwave for a few seconds for the perfect warm, cheesy bite.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast for a faster rise. Just reduce the rise time by about 15 minutes.

Can I add more garlic?

Yes! If you love garlic, you can easily increase the amount of garlic in the dough or even spread roasted garlic on top before baking.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What can I serve this bread with?

This garlic herb braided bread is perfect with soups, salads, or pasta. It also makes a great appetizer with dips like hummus or olive tapenade.

Conclusion

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a delicious and visually impressive loaf that combines the comfort of freshly baked bread with the savory goodness of garlic, herbs, and cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!