There’s something special about the aroma of fresh-baked bread filling your home. It’s warm, inviting, and just downright comforting. This Fluffy Herb and Garlic Bread recipe is all that and more! Not only does it yield two beautiful loaves perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends, but it’s also an easy, flavorful take on a homemade classic that even beginners can tackle with confidence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This herb and garlic-infused bread offers a delightful twist on traditional white bread, bringing a blend of Italian-inspired flavors that make it versatile for any meal. Its soft, fluffy texture pairs wonderfully with soups, pasta dishes, or even as sandwich bread. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick and simple to prepare, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a look at the ingredients that make this bread so delicious:

Warm water, sugar, and yeast: The foundation of your bread. Warm water helps activate the yeast, and sugar gives it a boost.
Vegetable oil: Adds richness and helps keep the bread moist.
All-purpose flour: Creates a sturdy yet fluffy texture.
Herbs and garlic powder: Dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder bring an irresistible aroma and flavor, giving the bread an herby, garlicky profile.
Melted butter: Brushed over the top for a golden, soft crust and a touch of richness.

How to Make Fluffy Herb and Garlic Bread

This recipe walks you through each step, ensuring a successful outcome. Here’s an overview of the process:

Activate the Yeast: Begin by dissolving sugar in warm water and adding the yeast. Let it sit until it becomes foamy, signaling that it’s active and ready to work.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix the proofed yeast with vegetable oil, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, including flour, herbs, salt, and garlic powder, until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Kneading is essential to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Aim for 3-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for about an hour. This step is crucial for a fluffy texture, as it allows the yeast to create air pockets in the dough.
Shape and Second Rise: Divide the dough into two, shape each portion into a loaf, and let them rise again in greased pans. This second rise helps develop the final texture of the bread.
Bake and Brush with Butter: Bake until golden brown, then brush with melted butter for a soft, flavorful crust. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Herb and Garlic Bread

Check the Water Temperature: Make sure your water is around 110°F (43°C) for best yeast activation. Too hot or too cold can affect the yeast’s activity.
Don’t Over-Knead: While kneading is important, overdoing it can result in tough bread. Stop once the dough is smooth and elastic.
Room Temperature Rise: If your kitchen is cool, try placing the bowl in a warm oven (turned off) to help the dough rise efficiently.

Enjoying Your Fresh-Baked Bread

Once baked, this herb and garlic bread is best served slightly warm, so you can fully enjoy the soft texture and the blend of flavors. Try pairing it with olive oil for dipping, using it for sandwiches, or serving it alongside pasta or soup. It’s also wonderful toasted with a bit of butter or as a base for garlic bread with extra herbs on top.

In Conclusion

This Fluffy Herb and Garlic Bread is a fantastic recipe to add to your baking repertoire. With simple steps and basic ingredients, you can create an aromatic, delicious bread that will make any meal feel extra special. Enjoy the process, and savor the mouthwatering results—your kitchen will smell divine, and your taste buds will thank you!

Fluffy Herb and Garlic Bread

Author: Alice

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Description

Get ready to elevate your homemade bread game with this aromatic and flavorful loaf. Quick and simple, this herb and garlic-infused bread is perfect for any meal, making your kitchen smell divine and your taste buds tingle with delight. Makes two loaves to enjoy with family or share with friends!

Ingredients

– 2 cups warm water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1.5 tablespoons yeast
– 1.5 teaspoons salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 5.5 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing

Instructions

1. Dissolve sugar in warm water. Add yeast, allowing it to proof until foamy.
2. Once proofed, mix vegetable oil into the yeast mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3-5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning it over to coat both sides. Let it rise for one hour in a warm area.
7. After rising, punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place in greased bread pans.
8. Allow the loaves to rise for another 30-40 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350 F (175 C) and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter while warm.
11. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

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