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Reasons to Bake This Stunning Loaf Today Recipe

Reasons to Bake This Stunning Loaf Today Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 21 reviews

This Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a beautifully crafted, flavorful loaf combining garlic, mixed herbs, and Parmesan cheese for an irresistible aroma and taste. With a golden crust and soft interior, it’s perfect as a centerpiece for any meal or as a delicious snack. Adding optional toppings like mozzarella or red pepper flakes elevates the flavor to suit your preference. Easy to prepare, this bread offers a stunning presentation and comforting homemade goodness.

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 sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, signaling active yeast.
  2. Mix Dough: Stir in olive oil, minced garlic, mixed herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of flour until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Gradually add remaining flour as needed to reach the right consistency.
  3. Knead Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes, adding parmesan cheese halfway through to incorporate it evenly 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, divide it into 3 equal parts, and roll each into 14–16 inch ropes. Braid the ropes together, tuck the ends underneath, and place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the braided loaf loosely and allow it to rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf gently with melted butter. Add optional toppings like red pepper flakes and shredded mozzarella if desired.
  8. Bake Bread: Bake for 25–30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and fragrant. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to enjoy the perfect texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use warm water ideally at 110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Adjust flour quantity as needed to achieve soft, workable dough.
  • For a richer garlic flavor, roasting the garlic before mixing can deepen taste.
  • Substitute fresh herbs if available for a brighter herbaceous note.
  • Letting the bread cool before slicing prevents a gummy texture.
  • Optional toppings can personalize the bread to your flavor preference.
  • Store leftovers tightly wrapped to maintain freshness; best eaten within 2-3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic bread, braided bread, herb bread, homemade bread, Parmesan bread, Italian bread, easy bread recipe

Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/reasons-to-bake-this-stunning-loaf-today-recipe/