Name: Irresistible Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread You'll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Water (100°F to 110°F for best results); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Can substitute with honey); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Instant yeast can be used); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Whole wheat flour can be mixed in); 1 teaspoon Salt (Use kosher salt for best taste); 1 Roasted Garlic (Fresh garlic can be roasted at home or use store-bought); 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary (Dried rosemary can substitute, use half the amount)

As I stood by the kitchen counter, the aroma of garlic wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a quaint café tucked away in a cobblestone street. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread, a delightful combination of savory roasted garlic and aromatic rosemary. Not only is this recipe surprisingly simple, but it’s also a guaranteed showstopper for any gathering or a comforting addition to your weeknight dinners. Picture a hot, crusty loaf that yields a soft, airy texture inside—perfect for toasting, dipping in olive oil, or slathering with butter. So, whether you’re an experienced home chef or just getting started, this artisan bread will quickly become your new favorite go-to recipe. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with this irresistible fragrance? Let’s get baking!

Why Is This Bread So Irresistible?

Bold flavors: The combination of roasted garlic and fresh rosemary brings a heightened depth of flavor that makes every bite a delight.
Easy to master: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers will feel confident creating this artisan bread.
Perfect for sharing: Surprise your friends and family at gatherings with this show-stopping loaf; they’ll be asking for the recipe!
Versatile uses: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted, or as a delicious side for soups and salads. You can also explore variations such as adding different herbs or even cheese for unique twists. Looking for something to pair it with? Check out my suggestions for pairing this bread with Roasted Garlic Mashed or enjoy it with hearty dishes like Honey Garlic Chicken.
Storage-friendly: Slice and freeze for easy access during busy weeknights without sacrificing that homemade flavor!

Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Water – Activates the yeast; use lukewarm water (100°F to 110°F) for best results.
Sugar – Feeds the yeast during activation; can substitute with honey if desired.
Active Dry Yeast – Causes the dough to rise; instant yeast can be used without pre-activation.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the bread; whole wheat flour can be mixed in for added nutrition.
Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; use kosher salt for the best taste.
Roasted Garlic – Adds a rich, savory flavor; fresh garlic can be roasted at home or store-bought used.
Fresh Rosemary – Contributes aromatic notes; dried rosemary can substitute, but use half the amount.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread

Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (100°F to 110°F) with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast on top and gently stir to combine. Allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to provide rise to your Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread.

Step 2: Mix Dough
Once the yeast is frothy, add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bowl. Incorporate the roasted garlic, which should be roughly mashed, along with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh rosemary. Mix everything together with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough starts to form, ensuring all ingredients are combined before preparing to knead.

Step 3: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough vigorously for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You might need to sprinkle a little more flour as you knead to keep it from sticking. When properly kneaded, the dough should be soft and spring back when poked, which is key for your Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread’s texture.

Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm, draft-free area and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This step is crucial for developing flavor and ensuring your artisan bread has a wonderful lightness.

Step 5: Shape Loaf
After the first rise, gently punch the dough down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place the shaped loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, and cover it again with a towel. Allow it to rise for another 30 minutes, giving it that perfect airy texture for your Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread.

Step 6: Score and Bake
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once the loaf has completed its second rise, use a sharp knife to make a shallow slash across the top—this helps with oven spring. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until it turns a beautiful golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, a sure sign your artisan bread is ready.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked to perfection, remove the bread from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow it to cool for 20–30 minutes before slicing. Letting it cool not only enhances the flavor but also prevents a gummy texture inside your delicious Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread.

Helpful Tricks for Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread

Check Yeast Freshness: Make sure your yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t froth within 10 minutes, it’s likely expired, and you’ll need new yeast for your artisan bread.
Perfect Dough Texture: The dough should feel smooth and elastic after kneading. If it’s too sticky, add a little extra flour; if it’s too dry, sprinkle in a splash of water.
Optimal Rising Environment: Rise the dough in a warm, draft-free spot. If your kitchen is chilly, consider turning on the oven for a few minutes and then turning it off to create a cozy environment for rising.
Avoid Over-Kneading: Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can result in tough bread, which we definitely don’t want for our roasted garlic rosemary artisan bread!
Great Scoring Technique: Use a very sharp knife to create slashes on the loaf before baking. This helps the bread expand properly and improves the final presentation.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool thoroughly before slicing. Cutting too soon can result in a gummy texture, sacrificing that perfect crumb you’ve worked hard to achieve!

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the artisan bread and freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer slices to a freezer bag for easy access, good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen slices, simply toast them directly from the freezer or let them thaw at room temperature before warming them in the oven for a few minutes.

Avoid Moisture: Always ensure the container or bag is sealed tightly to prevent moisture—and keep the delightful taste of roasted garlic rosemary artisan bread intact!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps—activating the yeast, mixing the dough, and kneading it. After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it; this slow rise enhances the flavors beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping it and allowing it to rise again for the final 30 minutes. This way, you’ll have freshly baked artisan bread with minimal last-minute effort, ensuring it’s just as delightful as if you made it all at once!

What to Serve with Easy Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread

As the aroma of this warm, freshly-baked artisan bread fills your kitchen, think about the delicious possibilities for a complete meal experience.

Creamy Tomato Soup: A velvety bowl of tomato soup perfectly contrasts the crispiness of the bread, making for a comforting combination. Dive in, and let the flavors mingle beautifully.
Chunky Olive Tapenade: This savory spread, brimming with olives and capers, enhances the herbal notes of your artisan bread. Serve it as an appetizer for a fantastic start to any gathering.
Fresh Garden Salad: Tossed greens with a zesty vinaigrette brings brightness to your meal. Enjoy every slice of bread as you soak up the delicious dressing with each bite.
Herbed Goat Cheese: The creamy texture and tang of fresh goat cheese paired with aromatic herbs perfectly complements the roasted garlic flavors in the bread. Spread it generously, and let the flavors meld.
Savory Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables, roasted until caramelized, enhances the heartiness of your meal. The sweetness of the veggies pairs beautifully with each fluffy bite of bread.
White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing spritzer, made with crisp white wine and sparkling water, cuts through the richness of the bread and keeps it light and enjoyable. It’s the perfect drink to sip alongside.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: For a fun twist, serve warm breadsticks made with similar flavors. These cheesy delights will have everyone reaching for more, creating a delightful experience.

Imagine these pairings alongside your Easy Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread—each bite a step toward culinary bliss.

Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring these delicious twists and substitutions!

Herb Swap: Try thyme, oregano, or basil instead of rosemary for a delightful herb twist. Each brings a unique flavor profile that’s equally enticing!
Cheesy Delight: Add 1 cup of grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to the dough for a creamy, savory surprise. Just imagine that stringy cheese with each slice!
Nutty Crunch: Throw in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pine nuts for an extra layer of flavor and a satisfying crunch. These additions provide a delicious texture contrast in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or freshly chopped jalapeños into the dough for a spicy version reminding you of artisan bakes from a cozy pizzeria.
Garlic Lovers: Use roasted garlic cloves to enhance the bread’s rich garlic flavor. Replace fresh garlic with 1-2 cloves for a truly bold taste!
Veggie Boost: Experiment with folded-in roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra dose of flavor and sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Whole Wheat Twist: For a heartier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Your bread will be more nutritious and flavorful!
Sweet Alternative: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a subtly sweet aroma that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of garlic.

These variations provide a delightful way to customize your Roasted Garlic Mashed or serve alongside a comforting dish like Lemon Garlic Butter. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my garlic is good for roasting?
Absolutely! When selecting garlic for roasting, look for bulbs that are firm and dry, without any soft spots or sprouts. Avoid garlic with dark spots or wrinkles, as this indicates freshness issues. If you smell a pungent odor, it may be past its prime!

What’s the best way to store leftover bread?
Very! To keep your leftover Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have more than you can eat in that timeframe, I recommend slicing it and freezing for later enjoyment.

Can I freeze this artisan bread? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread, wait until it’s completely cooled. Slice the loaf and arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until solid, then transfer to a labeled freezer bag. This way, it’ll stay good for up to 3 months, and you can toast slices straight from the freezer—easy and convenient!

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it likely means the yeast was not activated. Ensure the water is warm enough (100°F to 110°F) and your yeast is fresh—check the expiration date! If the yeast doesn’t foam in the first step, it’s best to start over with new ingredients.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute dried rosemary for fresh—just use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Be sure to mix it well into your dough for an even taste throughout your Roasted Garlic Rosemary Artisan Bread.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very! This artisan bread is vegetarian, but be cautious if anyone has gluten sensitivities, as it contains all-purpose flour. Also, if you’re concerned about garlic allergies, you can leave it out and still create a delicious rosemary bread by simply increasing the herb proportion!