Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rustic rosemary garlic bread is a fragrant, crusty loaf that brings bakery-quality flavor right into your kitchen. Made with simple ingredients, it combines the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary with the savory punch of garlic, resulting in a loaf that is both hearty and aromatic. Its rustic character comes from a crisp, golden crust paired with a soft, chewy interior that makes every slice irresistible. This bread is versatile, perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or pasta, and equally delightful when enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both beginner bakers and seasoned bread enthusiasts. Whether baked for a family meal, a dinner party, or simply to fill your home with the comforting smell of fresh bread, this rosemary garlic bread is sure to impress.
Rustic Rosemary Garlic Bread Recipe | Crusty & Flavorful
- Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crusty, aromatic rustic bread infused with fresh rosemary and roasted garlic, perfect for serving alongside soups, pastas, or as a standalone treat with olive oil.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, roasted and mashed
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, olive oil, rosemary, and roasted garlic.
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). If desired, score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle sea salt and additional rosemary on top before baking.
- Can be baked in a Dutch oven for an even crispier crust.
- Pairs wonderfully with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour – The foundation of the bread, providing structure and a soft yet chewy crumb.
Active dry yeast – Ensures the dough rises properly, giving the loaf its airy texture.
Warm water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour to form a smooth dough.
Olive oil – Adds richness and keeps the crumb tender while also enhancing flavor.
Salt – Balances the flavors and strengthens the dough’s structure.
Fresh rosemary – Provides earthy, pine-like notes and a fragrant aroma throughout the loaf.
Garlic – Roasted or sautéed garlic infuses the bread with deep, savory flavor.
Sugar or honey – A small amount feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness.
Directions
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar (or honey) in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add the olive oil, salt, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary, stirring well. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Before baking, lightly score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife for a rustic finish.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes one medium loaf, yielding about 10–12 slices. Preparation and rising take about 2 hours, with 25–30 minutes of baking, for a total of around 2.5 hours.
Storage/reheating
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or toast individual slices for a crisp finish.
Variations and Customizations
Whole wheat version – Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier loaf.
Cheesy rosemary bread – Add shredded parmesan or mozzarella into the dough for a rich twist.
Extra garlic – Roast a whole head of garlic and fold the softened cloves into the dough for deeper flavor.
Herb blend – Mix in thyme, oregano, or sage along with rosemary for a more complex taste.
Olive-studded bread – Add chopped olives for a Mediterranean flair.
No-knead method – Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator, then bake the next day for a more rustic texture.
Mini rolls – Shape the dough into small rolls instead of a loaf, perfect for serving at dinner parties.
FAQs
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, though fresh rosemary provides a more vibrant flavor. Use half the amount if substituting dried.
Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe?
No, kneading by hand works just as well.
Can I make this bread without garlic?
Yes, but the garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
How do I get a crispier crust?
Bake with a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour will yield a chewier texture.
Is this bread vegan?
Yes, provided you use sugar or maple syrup instead of honey.
Conclusion
Rustic rosemary garlic bread is the ultimate homemade loaf for those who love bold flavors and a satisfying texture. Its crisp crust, tender crumb, and fragrant blend of herbs and garlic make it a versatile staple for any meal. From pairing it with hearty soups to enjoying it simply with olive oil, this bread delivers both comfort and sophistication. The recipe is beginner-friendly yet produces bakery-quality results, ensuring it will quickly become a household favorite. With endless customization options, you can adapt it to your taste while keeping the timeless rustic charm intact.
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