Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWith a warm buttery aroma drifting through the kitchen, my heart races as I slice into a freshly baked Garlic Herb Braided Bread. This artisan masterpiece isn’t just a feast for the eyes with its elegant braid; it’s an uplifting combination of savory garlic, aromatic herbs, and a touch of parmesan that creates a comforting indulgence perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this yeast-based wonder is incredibly versatile and a hit with everyone. Plus, it’s meal-prep friendly, allowing you to savor the freshest taste without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to elevate your bread-baking game and impress your loved ones with this delightful creation? Why Is Garlic Herb Braided Bread So Special? Irresistible aroma: The moment this bread comes out of the oven, your kitchen transforms into a delightful bakery, enticing everyone to gather around. Golden crust: With its perfectly baked exterior, this bread not only looks stunning but also offers a satisfying crunch that beautifully contrasts the soft interior. Versatile companion: Whether served alongside a hearty soup like Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup or paired with a pasta dish such as Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta, it enhances any meal with its rich flavor. Meal prep friendly: The dough can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to whip up this culinary masterpiece without a hassle on busy days. Crowd-pleaser: From family gatherings to festive occasions, this bread is sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your table! Garlic Herb Braided Bread Ingredients For the Dough • All-Purpose/Bread Flour – Provides the necessary structure and chewiness for a delightful texture. • Active Dry Yeast – This key leavening agent helps the bread rise, ensuring a fluffy loaf. • Warm Water – Activates the yeast; aim for a temperature of about 110°F to get it just right. • Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor to the dough, but swap it with garlic butter for extra richness. • Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors and controlling the fermentation process of your yeast. • Sugar – Feeds the yeast to help it rise; while it’s optional, omitting it might change the texture. For the Flavor Punch • Garlic (minced/roasted) – Imparts that savory flavor we adore; feel free to adjust based on your preferences. • Mixed Dried Herbs – Introduces an aromatic palette; fresh herbs can be a vibrant substitute for a fresher taste. • Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a touch of savory richness that complements the garlic beautifully. For the Finishing Touches • Melted Butter (for brushing) – Gives the crust a shiny, appealing finish while boosting flavor. • Optional Add-ins: – Consider spicy red pepper flakes for some heat, shredded mozzarella for extra richness, or fresh parsley to garnish. This easy-to-follow list for Garlic Herb Braided Bread ensures you’ll gather everything you need to create this stunning artisan delight in your own kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Herb Braided Bread Step 1: Activate the Yeast In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (approximately 110°F) and sugar, stirring gently. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing it to become foamy. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy Garlic Herb Braided Bread. Step 2: Combine the Ingredients Once the yeast is frothy, stir in olive oil, minced garlic, mixed dried herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of the flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour as needed to achieve a smooth consistency, ensuring your mixture is well combined for the best texture. Step 3: Knead the Dough Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes. As you knead, incorporate grated Parmesan cheese halfway through. The dough should be soft and elastic, indicative of a well-kneaded Garlic Herb Braided Bread dough. Step 4: First Rise Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffy and has increased significantly in volume. Step 5: Shape the Dough After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into three equal portions, rolling each into a 14- to 16-inch rope. Braid the three ropes together, taking your time to create an appealing pattern. This lovely braid enhances the visual charm of your Garlic Herb Braided Bread. Step 6: Second Rise Carefully transfer the braided dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for 30 to 40 minutes. The dough should puff up even more, giving it a lovely, airy structure before baking. Step 7: Preheat and Prepare While the braided bread is completing its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, brush the loaf generously with melted butter. This step not only adds a beautiful shine but also enhances the flavor of your Garlic Herb Braided Bread. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing into this delightful artisan bread. Make Ahead Options These Garlic Herb Braided Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the instructions up to the first rise, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. This method enhances the flavors while keeping the dough fresh. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature, then proceed with shaping and the second rise before baking as usual. If you want to store the baked bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains soft and delicious. Enjoy fresh-baked Garlic Herb Braided Bread with minimal hassle! Expert Tips for Garlic Herb Braided Bread Fresh Yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for the best rise. If it fails to foam in the first step, it may be expired, and the bread won’t rise properly. Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to achieve the ideal texture. Over-kneading can make the bread tough, so watch for a soft finish. Perfect Braid: Take your time with the braiding process; it not only enhances visuals but also ensures even baking. Practice makes beautiful bread! Warm Environment: During rising, place the dough in a warm area, away from drafts. A good environment encourages the yeast to work its magic, ensuring your Garlic Herb Braided Bread is fluffy. Baking Test: To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf. A hollow sound indicates your bread is perfectly baked. What to Serve with Garlic Herb Braided Bread Nothing completes a meal quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread nestled beside your favorite dishes. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: The rich, velvety texture pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the bread, making each dip a delight you’ll return to. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine and tangy dressing complement the fluffy interior, creating a contrast of textures that’s simply irresistible. Grilled Vegetable Platter: Roasted veggies drizzled with balsamic glaze add a fresh, colorful touch that balances the bread’s richness beautifully. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Enhance the garlic infusion with succulent shrimp bathed in garlic butter, making this pairing a match made in heaven. Red Wine: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon brings depth to every bite, enriching the overall dining experience with its bold character. Herbed Goat Cheese Spread: A light, tangy spread balances the rich flavors of the bread, making it a wonderful accompaniment for casual gatherings. Savory Scones: Opt for a cheese or herb-infused scone for breakfast or brunch; this duo offers a delightful variation that’s still comforting and flavorful. Spicy Salsa: Add a kick to your meal with a chunky, fresh salsa that contrasts the bread’s buttery undertones, creating an exciting flavor profile. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a decadent chocolate mousse rounds off the meal, bringing a silky sweetness that echoes the rich flavors of the bread. Garlic Herb Braided Bread Variations Feel free to get creative with your Garlic Herb Braided Bread! With a little imagination, you can transform this classic recipe into something uniquely yours. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy a gluten-free version. The texture will differ, but it’ll still be delicious! Dairy-Free: Opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute, like nutritional yeast or vegan cream cheese, to make this bread for anyone avoiding dairy. Cheese Swap: Moist Mozzarella: Replace parmesan with shredded mozzarella for a creamier flavor and delightful stretch in your bread. Herb Boost: Fresh Herb Medley: Swap dried herbs for an assortment of fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. Their vibrant flavors will make your bread extra special. Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic amount for a more intense flavor punch. Roasted garlic adds a sweet touch that’s simply irresistible! Flavorful Add-ins: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Those little bursts of flavor will surprise every bite! Heat Factor: Zesty Red Pepper Flakes: Add red pepper flakes to the dough for a delightful kick. With just the right amount of heat, it’ll keep your taste buds dancing! All-in-One Bread: Consider making Garlic Herb Braided Garlic Butter Bread. Combine melted garlic butter in the dough for rich flavor throughout. Perfect for dipping alongside your favorite soup or sauce! No matter how you decide to customize your Garlic Herb Braided Bread, it’s all about making it your own! Consider serving with a warm bowl of Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup or some delectable Garlic Butter Steak for a truly delightful meal. How to Store and Freeze Garlic Herb Braided Bread Room Temperature: Store leftover Garlic Herb Braided Bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the bread to extend its shelf life for up to a week; however, it may lose some softness. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Reheating: To refresh bread, reheat it in an oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, restoring that warm, crusty delight! Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe FAQs How can I tell if my yeast is fresh? Absolutely! To check your yeast’s freshness, sprinkle it into warm water (about 110°F) mixed with a small amount of sugar. After 5 to 10 minutes, it should become frothy and bubbly. If it doesn’t activate, your yeast might be expired, and you’ll need to use a fresh packet. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? Very often, this can happen if the yeast isn’t active or the environment is too cool. Make sure your water is warm, not hot. If your dough hasn’t risen after an hour, try moving it to a warmer spot. You can also knead the dough again lightly and let it rise for another 30 minutes. How do I store Garlic Herb Braided Bread? For sure! Store leftover Garlic Herb Braided Bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it! Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before freezing for up to 3 months. Can I freeze the dough before baking? Certainly! To freeze the dough, follow these steps: After kneading, shape the dough into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in a zip-top freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. The dough can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge, let it rise, braid, and bake as instructed. Can I make Garlic Herb Braided Bread vegan or gluten-free? Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the melted butter with olive oil for brushing, and omit the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. For gluten-free bread, use a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. Look for gluten-free flour blends that contain xanthan gum for structure! How can I add additional flavors or textures? The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding ingredients like chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different cheese varieties. Fresh herbs, such as rosemary or dill, will add a vibrant touch to your Garlic Herb Braided Bread. Plus, don’t shy away from mixing in spices like red pepper flakes for a hint of heat! Garlic Herb Braided Bread Delight in the warm, buttery aroma of Garlic Herb Braided Bread that combines savory garlic, aromatic herbs, and parmesan for a comforting treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough2.5 cups All-Purpose/Bread Flour1 packet Active Dry Yeast approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons1 cup Warm Water approximately 110°F2 tablespoons Olive Oil or garlic butter for added flavor1 teaspoon Salt1 tablespoon Sugar optionalFor the Flavor Punch4 cloves Garlic (minced/roasted)2 teaspoons Mixed Dried Herbs or fresh herbs for better taste1/2 cup Grated Parmesan CheeseFor the Finishing Touches2 tablespoons Melted Butter (for brushing)1 teaspoon Optional Add-ins like red pepper flakes or mozzarella Equipment Mixing bowlBaking sheetParchment PaperWire Rack Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar, stirring gently. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing it to become foamy.Once the yeast is frothy, stir in olive oil, minced garlic, mixed dried herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of the flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes, incorporating grated Parmesan cheese halfway through.Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.Gently punch down the dough to release the air, divide it into three equal portions, and braid them together.Transfer the braided dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover it loosely with a kitchen towel, and let it rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.Preheat your oven to 375°F. Brush the loaf generously with melted butter.Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 3IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftover Garlic Herb Braided Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven to refresh. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
