Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe

If you have a craving for fresh, fragrant bread that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of herbs and garlic, then you are in for a real treat with this Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe. This bread is a heavenly blend of earthy rosemary and deeply savory roasted garlic, combining into a crusty loaf with a soft, tender crumb inside. It’s the kind of artisan bread that feels like a special occasion in every bite but is surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty soup or just enjoying it warm with a swipe of butter, this recipe promises to become a favorite staple that brings joy to your table and comfort to your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe is uncomplicated but crucial, as each one plays a pivotal role in building flavor and texture. From the fragrant rosemary to the yeast that magically makes the dough rise, every component is essential for that perfect loaf.

• 1 head garlic: Roasting the whole head softens the garlic, transforming it into a sweet, spreadable treasure that infuses the bread deeply.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps tenderize the crumb while complementing the garlic’s flavor.
• Coarse sea salt: Used for seasoning and enhancing the bread’s taste and crust texture.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Offers a subtle bite that balances the garlic’s sweetness.
• 1½ cups water (room temperature): Hydrates the dough perfectly for a moist crumb without stickiness.
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast: The essential leavening agent that gives the bread its airy rise.
• 3 cups bread or all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy structure necessary for an artisan loaf’s chewy texture.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: A touch of herbaceous depth that pairs beautifully with rosemary.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances overall flavor and strengthens the dough’s gluten network.
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary (plus extra for topping): The star herb delivering a piney, fragrant aroma and taste that defines this bread.

How to Make Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut the garlic head in half horizontally, drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Seal it tightly in foil and roast for about 40 minutes until the cloves become soft and caramelized. This roasted garlic will give your bread a deep, mellow garlic flavor that’s far from harsh or overpowering.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

While the garlic roasts, dissolve 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast in 1½ cups of room temperature water. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step activates the yeast, setting the foundation for the bread’s rise and airy texture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of bread or all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary. This combination provides a perfect balance of herbal notes and seasoning that will infuse every crumb of your artisan loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Components

Add the frothy yeast mixture, the softened roasted garlic (smashed to release flavor), and a drizzle of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently mix until everything comes together into a rough dough. Don’t overwork it; just blending until combined helps maintain a tender texture.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot in your kitchen. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, which usually takes 8 to 10 hours. This slow rise develops wonderful flavor and structure.

Step 6: Shape and Refrigerate Overnight

Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round ball. Place it seam side up in a floured bowl, cover, and refrigerate overnight or for up to 48 hours. This step allows even deeper flavor development and a perfect artisan texture.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up. Meanwhile, carefully shape your chilled dough onto a piece of parchment paper with the seam side down and score the top with a sharp knife or razor blade to create the classic bread design.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Transfer the scored dough (on the parchment) into the hot Dutch oven and cover with the lid. Bake covered for 30 minutes to trap steam, which helps develop a crisp crust. Then remove the lid and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the bread is gorgeously golden brown and crisp.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Allow your Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This resting period finishes the bread’s cooking process and ensures clean slices without squishing the delicate crumb.

How to Serve Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh rosemary on top of warm slices adds a visually appealing touch and reinforces the herbal aroma that makes this bread special. You can also brush slices lightly with olive oil or add a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor before serving.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with soups, stews, and salads. Imagine dipping a crusty warm slice into a creamy tomato basil soup or serving alongside a roasted vegetable platter for a hearty, wholesome meal. Its distinct garlic and rosemary notes elevate any side dish it accompanies.

Creative Ways to Present

Toast thick slices lightly and spread with whipped feta or herbed cream cheese for a delightful appetizer. You can also create a rustic bruschetta by piling diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze on top. The possibilities with this artisan bread are as endless as your culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover bread in a paper bag or bread box to maintain its crisp crust and chewy interior for up to two days. Avoid plastic bags, which can soften the crust and make the bread less enjoyable.

Freezing

If you want to save your Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe for later, slice the loaf first, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen bread maintains good quality for up to three months.

Reheating

To enjoy previously baked bread, reheat slices in a hot oven (about 350°F or 175°C) directly on the rack for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes the crust’s crispness and warms the crumb without drying it out. You can also pop slices in a toaster if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasting it?

Fresh garlic will give a sharper, more pungent flavor that isn’t as mellow or sweet as roasted garlic. Roasting transforms garlic’s harshness into a buttery softness that complements the bread’s texture and taste perfectly.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the dough overnight?

Refrigerating the dough allows for a slow fermentation, which develops richer flavor and improves the bread’s texture. You can bake it sooner, but the slow overnight rise takes this Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe to the next level.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works fine and will still make a lovely loaf. Bread flour has higher protein content, which yields a chewier texture, but this recipe is forgiving and delicious either way.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

You can bake this bread on a heavy baking sheet or pizza stone with a pan of water placed in the oven to create steam. While the crust might not be quite the same, you’ll still get a tasty, crusty artisan loaf.

How can I tell when the bread is done?

The bread should be a deep golden brown with a crisp crust. A good test is to tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 200°F (93°C).

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about making your own Rosemary & Roasted Garlic Artisan Bread Recipe from scratch, filling your home with irresistible aromas and sharing that first warm slice fresh from the oven. It’s a delightful project that rewards patience with a loaf that is as beautiful as it is delicious. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to impress even yourself, this artisan bread is the perfect place to start. Happy baking and enjoy every flavorful bite!

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