Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, infused with the irresistible flavors of garlic and herbs. This Garlic and Herb Swirl Bread is not just a recipe; it's an experience that will transform your kitchen into an Italian bakery! With its golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, this delightful loaf is perfect for any occasion—whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy night in. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Add olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir gently. In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt together.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic and herb filling by mixing minced garlic, dried herbs, and a tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12x16 inches.
- Spread the garlic and herb mixture evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully roll the dough from the long side, creating a tight spiral log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Transfer the rolled dough to a greased loaf pan, cover, and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil or beaten egg for a golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Activate Your Yeast: Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast. This step is crucial for a good rise!
- Knead Well: Don’t rush the kneading process! Knead the dough for at least 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, giving your bread that perfect texture.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to customize the herb blend to your taste. Fresh herbs can also be used for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Rolling Technique: When rolling the dough, ensure you keep it tight to form a beautiful swirl. A tight roll helps create those stunning layers.
- Golden Crust: For a beautifully golden crust, brush the top of the loaf with olive oil or a beaten egg before baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps maintain its texture and prevents it from becoming gummy.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create a stunning Garlic and Herb Swirl Bread that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
