How to Make Braided Italian Herb Bread - A Step-by-Step Guide

There's nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven, and this braided Italian herb bread is no exception. The combination of fragrant herbs and soft, tender dough makes this bread a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you're serving it alongside a hearty bowl of soup or using it to make the ultimate sandwich, this bread is sure to impress.

Making braided Italian herb bread may seem daunting at first, but it's actually quite simple. With a few basic ingredient...

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Ingredients

  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
  • 3 tablespoons white sugar
  • 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ½ cup water
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Additional Time: 35 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
  • Servings: 10
  • Yield: 1 loaf

  • Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, basil, salt, oregano, garlic powder, and rosemary in a large bowl.
  • Combine milk, water, and butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat in a microwave until butter melts, about 30 seconds. Pour over the flour mixture; beat until dough is just moistened. Add egg; beat until smooth. Stir in remaining 3 cups flour to form a soft dough.
  • Turn dough onto a floured surface such as a large cutting board or countertop. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 4 minutes. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
  • Divide dough into thirds. Shape each piece into a 15-inch rope. Transfer ropes to a greased baking sheet. Braid together. Pinch ends to seal; tuck under the braid. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 25 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Brush top of the braid with olive oil and sprinkle with basil.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet, or remove to a wire rack.
  • Nutrition

    295 cal.

    • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Cholesterol: 32mg
    • Sodium: 399mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 49g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 5g
    • Protein: 8g
    • Vitamin C: 1mg
    • Calcium: 48mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 144mg