Crown Herb Bread

Transform your table with the rustic elegance of Crown Herb Bread, a delectably soft and aromatic pull-apart bread perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines a golden, crusty exterior with a tender interior infused with a savory herb butter made from fresh parsley, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic. Shaped into a visually striking crown, this bread is not only delicious but also a centerpiece-worthy addition to your meal. Whether served warm alongside soups, salads, or enjoyed as a standalone appetizer, the addition of optional Parmesan cheese takes the flavor profile to the next level. With easy-to-follow steps, a satisfying kneading process, and the mesmerizing aroma of freshly baked bread, this recipe is a must-try for home bakers and herb lovers alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1.25 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.

Step 2

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Step 3

Mix the ingredients together using a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.

Step 4

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Grease a separate bowl with a small amount of olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

Step 6

Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 7

Prepare the herb butter by combining the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and Parmesan cheese (if using) in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 8

Punch down the risen dough gently to release any air bubbles, then divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball.

Step 9

Grease a round 9-inch cake pan or springform pan. Arrange the dough balls in a circular pattern along the edge of the pan to create a crown-like shape.

Step 10

Brush the dough balls generously with the prepared herb butter, ensuring the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed.

Step 11

Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for 20-30 minutes.

Step 12

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 13

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 14

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 15

Serve warm as a pull-apart bread, perfect for dipping in olive oil or enjoying on its own.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(909.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2514.6

Total Fat 81.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 93mg	0%
Sodium 3559.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 384.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.8g	0%
Total Sugars 13.7g
Protein 53.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 108.2mg	0%
Iron 23.8mg	0%
Potassium 700.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.5%

Protein: 8.6%

Carbs: 61.9%