Description

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.

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)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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 by hand or with a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes. Add the parmesan halfway through kneading.
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.
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.
Cover the loaf loosely and let it rise for 30–40 minutes, or until puffy.
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 the bread for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 190
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg