Garlic Herb Twist Bread is one of those comforting recipes that feels special, yet it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, infused with the rich scent of garlic and herbs. You don’t just make it; you create a moment! Whether you’re looking for a delightful side dish for dinner, a snack to impress your friends, or a lovely addition to a family gathering, this twist bread will surely become a favorite. Not only is it delicious, but the twisting technique adds a fun visual element, making it look as good as it tastes. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the heart of this fabulous recipe!
Why This Recipe Works
Garlic Herb Twist Bread takes your typical garlic bread and kicks it up a notch. The harmonious blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and melted butter merges into a gourmet experience. Plus, the unique twisting method enhances the presentation and ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. As the bread bakes, your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering scents, making it nearly impossible to resist until it’s out of the oven. Trust me, this recipe works wonders every time!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Twist Bread
Everything about this bread screams comfort. The aromatic combination of garlic and herbs creates a symphony of flavors that can make any dish shine. Not only does it serve beautifully at family meals, but it’s perfect for gatherings too. Imagine serving this Garlic Herb Twist Bread alongside a rich pasta dish or a fresh salad—it’s bound to impress your guests. Most importantly, it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for those special occasions. You’ll quickly find yourself looking for reasons to make it again!
Ingredients
- 2½ cups warm water (95-105°F)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ tablespoon salt
- 5½-6 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 tablespoon Italian herb blend
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Preparing the Dough
Activating Yeast
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl, then combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir it gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy. This step is crucial as it wakes up the yeast, readying it for the dough.
Mixing Ingredients
Next, add the olive oil, salt, and roughly 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Use a dough hook and mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes until everything’s combined. Gradually mix in an additional 2½-3 cups of flour. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Kneading the Dough
Continue mixing on low for another 2 minutes. If the dough sticks too much, feel free to sprinkle in a bit more flour. Once done, cover the bowl with a towel and let it rest in a warm area for about 15 minutes. This little break helps the dough to breathe and relax.
Shaping the Bread
Rolling the Dough
After resting, move the dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 2 equal parts, then roll each piece into a rectangle about 14″ x 10″. The size doesn’t have to be perfect; just aim for a nice, even shape.
Adding the Flavor
Now the fun begins! Brush each rectangle with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle ½ tablespoon of garlic salt, ½ tablespoon of Italian herbs, and ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan evenly across each rectangle. Make sure the flavor is evenly distributed—it’s the key to that delicious bite!
Forming the Twist
Tightly roll each rectangle from the long side, creating two long logs. Then, cut each log down the center. This gives you four long pieces. Pinch the ends of two sections together and twist them loosely. This technique not only looks beautiful, but it also ensures that each piece has marbled flavors.
Placing in Pan
Carefully place each twisted section into a prepared 9”x5” loaf pan, tucking the ends underneath. Repeat this process with the remaining halves until your pan is brimming with deliciousness.
Baking
Letting It Rise
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 30-40 minutes. You’re aiming for it to double in size during this time—patience pays off here!
Baking to Perfection
When it’s time, pop the bread into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust as a sign that it’s done. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. The waiting makes it even tastier!
Serving Suggestions
The best part? Garlic Herb Twist Bread is a versatile companion for many dishes. It’s perfect for dipping into marinara sauce, served alongside your favorite hearty salad, or paired with a warm bowl of soup. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your water is at the right temperature to successfully activate the yeast.
- Allow enough time for the dough to rise. A well-risen dough results in a lighter, fluffier texture.
- For an extra burst of flavor, brush with a little additional melted butter after baking.
Variations
- Herb Mix: Try different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist on flavors.
- Cheese Addition: Add some mozzarella for extra gooeyness or cheddar for a sharper taste.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes with the butter for a spicy variation.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month. Just let it thaw at room temperature before giving it a quick reheat in the oven.
Pairing Ideas
For a delightful experience, pair this twist bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It’s also an excellent side for pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine, enhancing the overall meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or bread flour can be substituted, keeping in mind the texture may adjust slightly.
2. Is there a gluten-free version of this bread?
For a gluten-free version, go for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just note that the rise might be less noticeable.
3. How do I know when the bread is baked?
When tapped on the bottom, the bread should sound hollow and have a lovely golden-brown top.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking it the following day.
5. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries! You can mix and knead the dough by hand; it just requires a bit more elbow grease.
Garlic Herb Twist Bread isn’t just a side; it’s a wonderful companion to any meal. This recipe merges simplicity with scrumptiousness, making it perfect for any occasion. From the moment it comes out of the oven to the last bite, it brings warmth and joy. So go ahead and give this twist on traditional garlic bread a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Garlic Herb Twist Bread
Garlic Herb Twist Bread is a comforting, aromatic dish that combines fresh herbs, garlic, and melted butter to create a sensational side for any meal. Its unique twisting technique not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Ingredients
- 2½ cups warm water (95-105°F)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ tablespoon salt
- 5½–6 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 tablespoon Italian herb blend
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; let sit until frothy.
- Mix in olive oil, salt, and 3 cups of flour; gradually add more flour until dough pulls away from sides.
- Knead for 2 minutes, cover, and let rest for 15 minutes.
- Roll dough into rectangles, brush with butter, and sprinkle garlic salt, herbs, and Parmesan.
- Roll and twist the dough, placing in a greased loaf pan.
- Let rise for 30-40 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure water is at the right temperature for yeast activation.
Allow sufficient time for dough rising for better texture.
Brush with extra melted butter post-baking for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 15
