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Irresistibly Easy Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread Recipe

Irresistibly Easy Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread Recipe

5.2 from 21 reviews

This Irresistibly Easy Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread is a flavorful, chewy loaf baked directly in a cast iron skillet. Infused with fresh garlic and rosemary, this bread combines simple ingredients and straightforward methods to deliver a warm, aromatic, and rustic bread perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (can be substituted with honey)
  • 2 teaspoons rapid rise instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (kosher salt alternative)
  • ¼ cup olive oil (can be substituted with melted butter or avocado oil)
  • 1 cup warm water (125-130°F)

For the Flavor

  • 3 cloves garlic (sliced or minced; roasted garlic for milder taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

Equipment

  • 10” cast iron skillet
  • Stand mixer
  • Large bowl
  • Wire rack

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and ¾ teaspoon of salt to create an even mixture.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Heat ¼ cup of olive oil and 1 cup of water to approximately 125-130°F to activate the yeast properly. Mix this liquid with the dry ingredients until a soft dough begins to form.
  3. Knead the Dough: Use a stand mixer to knead the dough for about 2 minutes, or knead by hand for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Rest the Dough: Cover the kneaded dough and let it rest for 10 minutes to start gluten development and yeast activation.
  5. Prepare the Skillet: Grease the cast iron skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then place the dough ball in the center of the skillet.
  6. Add Flavor: Make a criss-cross cut on the top of the dough with a knife. Brush the surface with the remaining olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the garlic, rosemary, and an optional pinch of salt over the top.
  7. First Rise: Cover the skillet and let the dough rise for about one hour until it doubles in size.
  8. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Cool: Remove the skillet carefully from the oven, take the bread out, and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Using bread flour gives a chewier texture compared to all-purpose flour.
  • If using dried rosemary instead of fresh, reduce to 1 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the bread.
  • Warm water between 125-130°F is critical for proper yeast activation.
  • Kneading by hand takes longer but develops good gluten structure.
  • Roasted garlic provides a milder flavor if preferred.
  • Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
  • The cast iron skillet helps create a rustic crust and even baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: rustic bread, garlic bread, rosemary bread, skillet bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, cast iron bread