Homemade Garlic & Rosemary Bread – Perfectly Crispy and Soft

Introduction

Did you know that freshly baked homemade bread releases over 20 aroma compounds that trigger feelings of comfort and satisfaction?

That’s exactly why this Homemade Garlic & Rosemary Bread – Perfectly Crispy and Soft is such a favorite. It combines a golden, crunchy crust with a soft, fluffy interior, infused with fragrant garlic and earthy rosemary.

This bread proves that bakery-quality results are absolutely achievable at home—without complicated techniques or special equipment. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients List

Simple, Rustic Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour (3½ cups / 450 g)
Creates a soft crumb with a crisp crust
Substitution: Bread flour for extra chew
Warm Water (1¼ cups / 300 ml)
Activates the yeast (not too hot)
Active Dry Yeast (2¼ tsp / 1 packet)
Olive Oil (3 tbsp)
Adds richness and softness
Garlic (4 cloves, finely minced)
Bold, aromatic flavor
Fresh Rosemary (2 tbsp, finely chopped)
Earthy, fragrant notes
Substitution: Dried rosemary (1 tbsp)
Salt (2 tsp)
Sugar or Honey (1 tsp)
Feeds the yeast and balances flavor

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Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1½ hours
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

⏱ That’s still quicker than many traditional artisan bread recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

🫧 Foam = active yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

Punch down the dough, shape into a round or oval loaf, and place on a lined baking tray.

Cover and rest for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat oven to 220°C / 425°F.

Bake for 25 minutes, until golden brown and crusty.

🔥 For extra crustiness, place a small oven-safe dish of water in the oven.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

✨ Cooling helps set the crumb and enhances texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)

Calories: 180 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: ~320 mg

📊 Lower in additives and preservatives than store-bought garlic bread.

Healthier Alternatives

Make it fit your lifestyle:

Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half the flour for extra fiber
Less Oil: Reduce by 1 tablespoon
Vegan-Friendly: Already naturally vegan
Low-Sodium: Reduce salt slightly
Extra Flavor: Add thyme or oregano

🌱 Simple swaps, same delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with soups, salads, or pasta dishes
Use for sandwiches or panini
Brush with garlic butter after baking
Toast slices with olive oil & sea salt
Perfect for sharing at dinner

✨ Best enjoyed warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Water Too Hot → Kills yeast
Under-Kneading → Dense bread
Skipping Rest Time → Flat loaf
Overbaking → Dry interior
Cutting Too Soon → Gummy crumb

📌 Bread quality is all about patience.

Storing Tips

Room Temperature: Up to 2 days, wrapped
Refrigerator: Not recommended (dries bread)
Freezing: Up to 1 month, sliced
Reheating: Warm in oven for best texture

Conclusion

This Homemade Garlic & Rosemary Bread – Perfectly Crispy and Soft delivers artisan-style results with minimal effort. Fragrant, golden, and irresistibly fluffy inside, it’s perfect for any meal. Try it today, share your experience in the comments, and subscribe for more homemade bread recipes!

FAQs

Can I use dried rosemary?

Yes—use half the amount.

Why didn’t my bread rise?

Yeast may be expired or water too hot/cold.

Can I make this dough ahead?

Yes—refrigerate overnight after first rise.

Can I bake it in a Dutch oven?

Absolutely—bake covered for 20 minutes, uncovered for 5.

Is this bread vegan?

Yes, completely plant-based.

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