Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for a homemade bread that’s as impressive as it is easy, let me introduce you to the Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe. This recipe brings together pillowy-soft bread with a crackly crust, heaps of creamy roasted garlic, and a swoosh of herby basil butter. It’s pure comfort—whether you’re welcoming guests, pairing it with dinner, or devouring warm slices straight from the oven. This is the kind of bread that’ll make your whole house smell dreamy and your family come wandering into the kitchen, wondering what could possibly be that delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe is built on simple staples and a handful of “wow” ingredients that transform it from everyday loaf to something special. Each component plays a role in developing the bread’s flavor, structure, and golden appearance—don’t skip a thing if you want the full, unforgettable effect!

• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The key to achieving that lovely, airy rise with practically zero kneading.
• Granulated sugar (1 tsp): Feeds the yeast and helps the bread develop a hint of sweetness.
• Warm water (1/4 cup for proofing + 1 1/4 cup for dough): Ensures your yeast activates and the dough comes together just right.
• All purpose flour (3 cups): The foundation of the loaf, giving structure and softness.
• Kosher salt (2 tsp): Balances flavor and gives the loaf life beyond basic white bread.
• Garlic heads (2): Roasted to soft, golden perfection for adding deep, sweet savoriness throughout the bread.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp): Used for roasting garlic and finishing the crust for beautiful color and flavor.
• Flaky sea salt (2 tsp, like Maldon): Sprinkled on top for that irresistible bakery-style crust.
• Salted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Blends with fresh herbs for a dreamy spread that completes every slice.
• Fresh basil (1/2 cup, chopped): Brings color, freshness, and summery aroma to the homemade butter.
• Lemon or orange zest (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds a citrus pop that brightens the basil butter.
• Kosher salt & fresh cracked black pepper: For seasoning your basil butter to perfection.

How to Make Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by stirring the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of granulated sugar into 1/4 cup of warm water. This gives your yeast a little snack to wake it up! Let it sit for about 5-6 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This means your yeast is ready to work its rising magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, your foamy yeast mixture, and the remaining 1 1/4 cup of warm water. Stir it all together; you’ll get a shaggy, sticky dough (no stand mixer needed). Cover with a dish towel and let it rest in a cozy, warm spot. In about three hours, it’ll double in size and you’ll start seeing a beautiful, stretchy texture.

Step 3: Roast the Garlic

As your dough rises, roast the garlic. Preheat your oven to 400F, trim the tops off each garlic head, and nestle them into foil after a drizzle of olive oil. Wrap the bulbs tightly in foil and bake for 45 minutes. When they’re done, your kitchen will smell incredible. Cool them a bit and then squeeze the sweet, buttery cloves into a bowl for later.

Step 4: Incorporate the Garlic

Once the dough has doubled and the garlic is cool enough to handle, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently punch it down, then scatter those dreamy roasted garlic cloves across the dough. Fold and knead the dough gently (just a few turns) to tuck the garlic throughout. Dust with extra flour if needed. Shape it up, cover with a towel, and let it rise until puffed—another hour or so.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

While your loaf gets lofty, slide a Dutch oven onto the middle rack and preheat your oven to 450F. When ready, use parchment paper as a sling to lower the dough (with any garlic that snuck out) into the hot pot. Give it a final glossy drizzle of olive oil and a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Cover, bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake 10-12 minutes more until golden brown and irresistibly crusty.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Take your gorgeous Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe masterpiece out, let it cool on a rack for at least 20 minutes (if you can wait), then slice in and marvel at its steamy, aromatic crumb.

Step 7: Make the Basil Butter

While the bread cools, stir together the room temperature butter, fresh chopped basil, and citrus zest if you’re feeling fancy. Season to taste with kosher salt and cracked black pepper. Either shape it in a log using parchment or simply scoop it into a bowl—either way, it’s perfect slathered on warm bread.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to take things up a notch, try brushing the still-warm loaf with a touch more olive oil, or scatter some extra flaky salt and fresh basil over the top right before slicing. A little sprinkle of chopped parsley or a whisper of grated Parmesan adds color and a savory hit that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter.

Side Dishes

This bread makes any meal feel special. Try serving it with a big, zesty salad, your favorite hearty soup, or next to a garlicky spaghetti. The Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe soaks up sauces and stews like a dream. For brunch, it’s gorgeous alongside eggs and roasted veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

Surprise your guests by slicing the loaf thick, grilling the slices lightly, and serving with a “build-your-own” butter or tapenade platter. Or, cube the bread, toast it, and make killer croutons for salad or soup. Individual charcuterie boards or rustic bread baskets make the Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe an unforgettable centerpiece for any spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bread in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean towel for up to two days at room temperature. The crust stays crisp that way. If you plan to keep it longer, pop it into an airtight container to preserve freshness, though the crust may soften a little.

Freezing

Wrap cooled, sliced bread tightly in plastic wrap and slip it into a freezer bag. The Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe freezes beautifully and will keep for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature or gently reheat when a craving strikes.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked crispness, place slices or the whole loaf in a 350F oven for about 10 minutes. You can even wrap it in foil to keep the interior tender. If you’re toasting slices, pop them straight into your toaster for a golden, toasty touch that brings all the aromas rushing back.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast can be swapped in cup for cup—just mix it directly into the dry ingredients, skipping the proofing step. Your Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe will still rise beautifully.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Look for a deep golden crust and listen for a hollow sound when you tap the loaf’s bottom. If you’re a thermometer fan, the internal temperature should hit about 200F.

What’s the best way to customize the loaf with other flavors?

Feel free to get playful—toss in chopped rosemary, thyme, shredded cheese, or even sun-dried tomatoes as you fold in the garlic. Just be sure not to overload the dough or the bread won’t rise as well.

Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

Yes! Bake the loaf on a preheated stone or heavy sheet pan. Pop a pan of water in the oven to create steam, which helps develop a crisp crust.

Why does my dough seem too sticky or wet?

No knead doughs are stickier by nature, but if yours is pooling or can’t be handled, sprinkle in a tablespoon or two of extra flour until manageable. Humidity and flour brands can vary, so adjust as needed.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you fall in love with this Roasted Garlic No Knead Bread Recipe as much as I have! Every slice is packed with flavor and comfort, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be baking it again and again. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dreaming up new ways to add a garlicky, homemade touch to every meal!

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