Few dishes are as comforting and universally adored as a freshly baked loaf of garlic herb bread. This delightful recipe combines the savory goodness of garlic with the fragrant aroma of herbs, offering an irresistible slice that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether accompanying a family dinner or serving as the star of a cozy brunch, this bread is bound to please everyone’s palate.
Growing up, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house always featured her famous garlic herb bread. As she pulled the bread from the oven, the entire house would fill with a mouthwatering aroma that signaled we were about to indulge in something special. Over the years, I’ve adapted her recipe to include my favorite herbs, adding a modern twist to a beloved family tradition. Now, every time I bake this bread, I’m reminded of those cherished Sunday dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic herb bread recipe stands out for its perfect blend of flavors and ease of preparation. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- Customizable: You can adjust the herbs to suit your taste, making each loaf uniquely yours.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal dinner, this bread fits any menu.
- Mouthwatering Aroma: The combination of garlic and herbs will fill your home with an enticing scent as it bakes.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients, including flour, yeast, salt, garlic, butter, and your choice of herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is bubbly. This step ensures your bread will rise properly.
Step 3
Mix in the flour, salt, minced garlic, and melted butter. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Step 4
Add chopped herbs into the dough, kneading until they are evenly distributed. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
Step 5
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and let it rise again for 30 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Storage Options
Garlic herb bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days when wrapped in aluminum foil or placed in an airtight container. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
To accommodate different preferences, consider these variations:
- Swap out regular butter with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Add cheese like parmesan or cheddar for a rich, savory taste.
- For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Incorporate different herbs such as rosemary or dill for flavorful twists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of yeast should I use? This recipe is best with active dry yeast, which requires activation in warm water. Make sure the water is between 105°F and 115°F to ensure proper activation.
Can I use whole wheat flour? Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that the texture will be denser, and you might need to add a little extra water to achieve the desired dough consistency.
How do I prevent my bread from being too dense? Ensure that your yeast is fresh and active by looking for bubbles during the activation step. Additionally, be careful not to add too much flour and make sure the dough rises adequately both times.
Garlic Herb Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1.5 cups warm water about 110°F
- 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra for greasing
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and olive oil, and stir to form a rough dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- Grease a bowl with olive oil, place the dough in it, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and basil.
- Punch down the dough, form into a loaf, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil, and sprinkle the garlic-herb mixture over it.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
