Dessert

Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe

Name: Garlic Herb Braided Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489630H6M34S
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 herbs; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing); ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella; 1 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

BySarah Summers November 8, 2025November 8, 2025

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Introduction

Garlic Herb Braided Bread is a flavorful and visually stunning loaf that combines aromatic garlic, mixed herbs, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for sharing at dinners or serving alongside your favorite meals, this bread offers a soft interior with a golden, fragrant crust.

The image shows a round loaf of bread with a golden-brown crust, scored with deep cuts forming a star pattern on top. The crust has a slight shine and is sprinkled with coarse salt and fresh rosemary leaves. The bread is resting on a piece of crinkled white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is reaching in from the left side, gently holding the edge of the parchment paper. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
2 tbsp shredded mozzarella
1 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Stir in the olive oil, garlic, mixed herbs, salt, and 2½ cups of flour. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour as needed to form a workable dough.
Step 3: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 6 to 8 minutes. Add the grated parmesan cheese halfway through kneading to incorporate it evenly.
Step 4: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Step 5: Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each into ropes about 14 to 16 inches long. Braid the ropes together, tuck the ends underneath, and place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Cover the braided loaf loosely and let it rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and shredded mozzarella if using.
Step 8: Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, until it is golden brown and fragrant. Let it cool slightly before slicing and garnishing with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before adding to the dough.
Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste or dried herbs for convenience—they both work well.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives in the dough for an extra savory twist.
Brush the baked bread with garlic-infused olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread after baking, well wrapped, for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through and crusty.