Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread

If you’re looking for a bread recipe that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas, then you’ve come to the right place! This Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread is a true gem in my kitchen. It’s crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside, and bursting with flavor thanks to the roasted garlic and fresh rosemary. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a cozy dinner for two, or just want to treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this bread is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. With no kneading required, it practically makes itself while you go about your day. Just imagine tearing into that warm loaf straight from the oven, paired with a drizzle of olive oil or alongside your favorite soup—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Knead Magic: This bread requires minimal effort! Just mix the ingredients and let it rise while you relax.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted garlic and rosemary creates an aromatic experience that elevates any meal.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields enough to share with family or friends—great for gatherings!
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it with soups, salads, or as a snack—this bread fits into any meal plan.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Letting the dough rest overnight enhances the flavor and texture, making it even better!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that each component adds its own touch to this delightful loaf. Here’s what you need:

For the Roasted Garlic

• 1 head garlic
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Pinch of coarse sea salt
• Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

For the Bread

• 1½ cups water, room temperature (70°F / 21°C)
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt or fine sea salt
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary, plus extra for topping
• 1 whole head roasted garlic, smashed
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Variations

One of the best things about this Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Add Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheese like mozzarella or parmesan into the dough for a rich flavor.
• Herb Swap: Try different herbs like thyme or basil if you’re looking for a new twist.
• Infuse with Olives: Toss in some chopped olives for a Mediterranean flair.
• Go Whole Wheat: Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

How to Make Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). Slice the head of garlic in half, drizzle it with olive oil, and season it with salt and pepper. Wrapping it in foil helps concentrate those amazing flavors. Roast it for about 40 minutes until soft and golden. Once it’s cool enough to handle, squeeze out those sweet cloves from their skins—this will be pure magic in our bread!

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine room-temperature water and active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 10–15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures your bread rises beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oregano, kosher salt, and chopped rosemary. Now add in your yeast mixture along with those lovely smashed roasted garlic cloves and olive oil. Stir everything together until just combined—the dough will feel sticky but that’s exactly what we want!

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm spot. Let it rise until doubled in size—this usually takes around 8–10 hours. Overnight works great too; just prepare before bed!

Step 5: Shape Your Dough

Once risen, turn your dough onto a floured surface. Gently fold it into a ball without overworking it. Place seam side up in a floured bowl; cover again and refrigerate anywhere from 1 hour up to 48 hours—this longer resting time enhances flavor.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven again to 450ºF (232ºC). If you have a Dutch oven (which I highly recommend), place it inside as your oven heats up—it helps create that perfect crust!

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Carefully transfer your shaped dough onto parchment paper seam side down. Score the top lightly with a knife—this allows steam to escape while baking. Place it into your hot Dutch oven, cover it up, and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Finish Baking

After half an hour, uncover your bread and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the oven and allow cooling on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.

Now grab that delicious Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread! It’s time to enjoy every bite of this scrumptious creation!

Pro Tips for Making Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread

Baking artisan bread can seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be creating mouthwatering loaves in no time!

• Use room temperature water: Starting with room temperature water helps activate the yeast more effectively, ensuring a good rise for your dough.
• Let it rise longer: Don’t rush the rising process! Allowing your dough to rise for the full 8–10 hours (or longer) develops deeper flavors and improves the texture of your bread.
• Preheat your Dutch oven: A hot Dutch oven creates a steamy environment that mimics traditional bread ovens, resulting in a beautifully crusty exterior.
• Score before baking: Scoring the top of your loaf allows for controlled expansion as it bakes, which not only looks beautiful but also ensures an even rise.
• Cool completely before slicing: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, letting your bread cool on a wire rack allows for optimal texture and flavor development.

How to Serve Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread

This delightful artisan bread pairs wonderfully with various dishes and can be served in multiple ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a cozy dinner or as a snack, here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary on top of the loaf not only enhances its visual appeal but also amplifies its aromatic profile.
• Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavors of both the bread and any accompaniments.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: The acidity and richness of tomato soup complement the savory notes of this bread perfectly, making it an excellent pairing for dipping.
• Mixed Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A fresh salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty bread. The bright lemon vinaigrette will cleanse your palate beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while balancing the flavors of the bread with their natural sweetness.
• Hummus or Olive Tapenade: Serve slices alongside these spreads for an easy appetizer or snack; their creamy textures pair wonderfully with the crusty loaf.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to enjoy your Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy a delicious, freshly baked loaf whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing to make it easier to defrost individual pieces.
• Place slices in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen slices, simply toast them in a toaster or oven.
• For larger pieces, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm wrapped bread for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy your revitalized bread with your favorite dips or spreads!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread.

Can I use regular garlic instead of roasted garlic?

Absolutely! While roasted garlic provides a sweeter flavor, you can use fresh minced garlic if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful that the taste will be more pungent.

How do I make Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately for better structure.

What can I serve with Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread?

This artisan bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or simply drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal!

How long does it take to rise?

The dough needs about 8–10 hours to rise in a warm spot. If you’re planning ahead, you can let it rise overnight for convenience!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bake this Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread as I am! The combination of fragrant rosemary and sweet roasted garlic will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This recipe not only brings comfort but also offers versatility for any meal. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences! Happy baking!