Herb & Garlic Loaf
Description
Herb & Garlic Loaf is a soft, fluffy bread infused with fresh garlic, butter, and fragrant herbs. The crust is lightly golden while the inside stays tender and airy, making it perfect for dipping into soups, serving with pasta, or enjoying warm with extra butter. This homemade loaf fills your kitchen with an irresistible bakery-style aroma and tastes far better than store-bought garlic bread.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rest/Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
¾ cup warm milk (not hot)
¼ cup warm water
3 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1½ tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp dried oregano or mixed Italian herbs
½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
Optional Topping
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Extra herbs for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy. Add olive oil, salt, and flour gradually. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, sprinkle a little flour—but don’t overdo it.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Make Herb & Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine butter, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Spread the herb & garlic butter evenly over the surface. Roll tightly into a log and seal the edges.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place the loaf seam-side down into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 15–20 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the loaf for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 8: Finish
Brush the top with a little extra butter and sprinkle Parmesan and herbs if desired. Cool slightly before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with soups or stews
Pair with pasta, lasagna, or salads
Toast slices and enjoy with eggs or cheese
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use dry herbs instead of fresh?
A: Yes, dry herbs work perfectly. Use about half the amount compared to fresh herbs.
Q: Can I make this loaf without yeast?
A: Yeast is needed for this soft bread texture. Without yeast, the loaf will be dense.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake, cool completely, and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Q: How do I keep the loaf soft?
A: Wrap it in foil or a clean cloth once cooled. Avoid refrigeration as it dries bread out.
Q: Can I add cheese inside the loaf?
A: Absolutely! Mozzarella or cheddar works great rolled inside with the butter.