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Homemade Rosemary Bread Recipe

4.6 from 107 reviews

This homemade rosemary bread is a fragrant, rustic loaf perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients including fresh rosemary and olive oil, it offers a delightful aroma and a tender, flavorful crumb. Ideal for serving alongside soups, stews, or enjoying on its own with butter.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix Dough: Add the flour, salt, chopped rosemary, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir together until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, developing gluten structure.
  4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape Loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet. Cover again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make several shallow slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking.
  7. Bake: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving to allow the crumb to set.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast without killing it (about 105°F to 110°F).
  • Kneading is essential to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness.
  • Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.
  • Fresh rosemary is preferred for the best flavor; dried rosemary can be substituted but use half the amount.
  • For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.

Keywords: rosemary bread, homemade bread, yeast bread, artisan bread, easy bread recipe, Italian bread