Braided Garlic Herb Bread

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Description

Braided Garlic Herb Bread is a soft, golden loaf woven beautifully with fresh herbs and infused with garlic butter. It’s the perfect showstopper bread—crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and packed with aromatic flavors. Whether you serve it alongside soups, pasta, or enjoy it warm with butter, this bread adds elegance and flavor to any meal.

Ingredients For Braided Garlic Herb Bread

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 large egg

  • 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

For the Garlic Herb Filling:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

For Brushing:

  • 1 egg yolk (beaten with 1 tbsp water, for egg wash)

  • Optional: sprinkle of sesame seeds or parmesan

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast

    • In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–8 minutes until frothy.

  2. Make Dough

    • Add egg, olive oil, and salt to yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  3. First Rise

    • Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

  4. Prepare Filling

    • Mix butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  5. Shape Bread

    • Roll dough into a rectangle (about 10×15 inches). Spread filling evenly.

    • Roll tightly into a log, slice lengthwise down the middle, and braid the two halves (cut sides up for a beautiful swirl).

  6. Second Rise

    • Place braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rest 25–30 minutes.

  7. Bake

    • Brush with egg wash. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.

  8. Serve

    • Cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • Use bread flour for extra chewiness.

  • Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried can be substituted.

  • For a vegan version, replace butter with vegan margarine and egg with plant-based milk.

  • This bread also makes amazing garlic toast when reheated.

Tips

  • Don’t overstuff with filling or it may leak while baking.

  • If dough is sticky, add 1–2 tbsp more flour at a time until manageable.

  • To prevent burning, tent with foil in the last 10 minutes if browning too fast.

  • Best eaten the same day, but can be stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

Servings

  • Makes 1 large braided loaf (about 10–12 slices).

Nutritional Info (per slice, approx. 12 servings)

  • Calories: 180

  • Carbs: 28g

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 6g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 180mg

Benefits

  • Fresh herbs provide antioxidants and digestive benefits.

  • Garlic supports heart health and boosts immunity.

  • Homemade bread avoids preservatives found in store-bought loaves.

  • A beautiful centerpiece bread for gatherings and celebrations.

Q&A

Q: Can I freeze braided garlic bread?
A: Yes! Bake, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Q: What can I serve this bread with?
A: Perfect with soups, stews, pasta, or as a side for grilled meats and salads.

Q: My bread turned out dense, what went wrong?
A: Likely under-kneaded dough or yeast not activated properly. Make sure the dough is smooth and elastic before the first rise.

Q: Can I add cheese to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Mozzarella, parmesan, or cheddar works wonderfully.

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