Name: Roasted Garlic No-Knead Bread with Basil Butter Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 tsp granulated sugar; 1/4 cup warm water; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 1/4 cup warm water; 2 garlic heads; 3 tbsp olive oil (divided: 1 tbsp per garlic head + 1 tbsp for dough); 2 tsp flaky sea salt (such as Maldon); 1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature); 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/2 tsp lemon or orange zest (optional); Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste

If you love the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread combined with the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic, then you are going to be head-over-heels for this Roasted Garlic No-Knead Bread with Basil Butter Recipe. This recipe brings together the simplicity of a no-knead dough with the deep, sweet notes of slow-roasted garlic, finished with a luscious homemade basil butter that brightens every bite. It’s a hands-off, cozy baking adventure that yields a crusty, golden loaf with a tender crumb and an unforgettable flavor that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or just savoring yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two whole garlic bulbs with the tops removed, exposing the creamy white and light yellow garlic cloves inside. The bulbs rest partially on a crinkled piece of silver foil, which reflects light and adds texture to the scene. The surface beneath is a white marbled texture, giving a clean and simple look. The garlic cloves have a soft, slightly oily appearance, and the papery outer skin of the bulbs is light tan with some natural wrinkles. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

You might be surprised how simple this recipe is when you look at the ingredients. Each choice is as purposeful as it is straightforward, combining to create a bread that’s both delicious and deeply satisfying. The flour provides structure, the yeast gently lifts the dough, the garlic infuses it with warm savoriness, and the basil butter adds a fresh, herbaceous finish that elevates every slice.

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: This is the magic that makes the dough rise without any heavy kneading.
1 tsp granulated sugar: Just enough to feed the yeast and help it bloom beautifully.
1/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and dissolves the sugar for that perfect foam.
3 cups all purpose flour: Provides the backbone of your bread – soft yet sturdy.
2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity for a perfect rise.
1 1/4 cup warm water: Hydrates the dough gently to form that irresistibly shaggy texture.
2 garlic heads: Roasted slowly to bring out their sweet, creamy character.
3 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the bread moist as it bakes.
2 tsp flaky sea salt (such as Maldon): Scattered on top for a delightful crunch and pop of savoriness.
1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature): The base for the luscious basil butter that makes every bite special.
1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped): Offers a fresh, aromatic contrast inside the butter.
1/2 tsp lemon or orange zest (optional): A hint of brightness to lift the basil butter’s flavor.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper: For seasoning the basil butter just right.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Roasted Garlic No-Knead Bread with Basil Butter Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start by combining the yeast, sugar, and a small amount of warm water. Stir it gently and give it about 5-6 minutes until it’s bubbly and fragrant. This foamy stage is where the yeast wakes up and gets ready to do its job, promising a beautifully risen loaf.

Step 2: Form Your Shaggy Dough

In a big bowl, whisk together your flour, salt, then add the yeast mix and the warm water. Don’t worry about kneading here—just stir until a rough, sticky dough comes together. Cover it with a dish towel and tuck it somewhere cozy for about 3 hours. Patience here is key because that slow rise develops flavor and texture.

Step 3: Roast the Garlic

While your dough rests, preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare the garlic heads. Peel off just enough papery skin to expose the cloves, then slice off the top inch so all that sweetness can escape while roasting. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap tight in foil, and roast for 45 minutes until soft and heavenly. Let them cool before squeezing out the roasted garlic cloves.

Step 4: Incorporate the Roasted Garlic

Lightly flour your surface, turn out the dough, and gently punch it down. Press in the tender garlic cloves evenly across the dough, folding it over 4-6 times until the garlic is well incorporated and the dough feels smooth. Add a sprinkle of flour if it gets sticky—this keeps it manageable.

Step 5: Second Rise and Prepare for Baking

Shape your garlic-studded dough into a ball and place it on parchment paper. Cover it with a clean bowl or cloth and let it double in size again for about an hour. This second rise will give you that lovely lightness inside, while the crust crisps beautifully in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Bread in a Dutch Oven

Place a large Dutch oven inside your oven and preheat to 450°F. Once hot, carefully transfer your dough (with the parchment sling) into the pot. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before covering with the lid. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 10-12 minutes until your bread is golden and crusty.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare Basil Butter

After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool on a rack for at least 20 minutes. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with chopped basil, zest if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is well combined. Refrigerate or roll it into a log with parchment until you’re ready to spread it on your warm, fragrant bread.

How to Serve Roasted Garlic No-Knead Bread with Basil Butter Recipe

A white round bowl filled with a creamy white spread mixed with small green herb pieces, swirled softly to create a textured look. On top, there is a sprinkling of yellow lemon zest and coarse salt with a few cracks of black pepper, and a small fresh green leaf for garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with part of a silver spoon and a striped cloth visible at the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This bread with basil butter is beautiful on its own, but adding a few extra touches can make it feel even more special. Chop extra fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them on top of the butter for a burst of color and freshness. A pinch of flaky sea salt on the butter adds crunch and depth.

Side Dishes

This bread is an excellent partner to a wide variety of meals. Think creamy tomato soup, roasted vegetable salads, or even alongside a charcuterie board with cured meats and cheeses. Its garlicky warmth and herbaceous butter complement so many dishes effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the bread and layering basil butter and thin slices of fresh mozzarella or heirloom tomatoes for an easy bruschetta. Or spread the basil butter inside warm bread, wrap it up, and serve as a delightful garlic herb sandwich base. The possibilities with this Roasted Garlic No-Knead Bread with Basil Butter Recipe are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You want to keep that crust crisp and the interior moist, so store leftover bread in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid plastic wrap as it traps moisture and softens the crust.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first or freeze the whole loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When properly frozen, it will last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-from-the-oven feeling, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the bread for 10-15 minutes. If you froze it, let it fully thaw first. Reheat the basil butter slightly before spreading so it melts perfectly into the warm bread.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Bread flour has a higher protein content which can give your bread a chewier texture and more structure. It’s a great option if you prefer a heartier crumb, but all-purpose flour works wonderfully here too.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can bake the bread on a baking stone or heavy baking sheet. Place a heatproof bowl or pan filled with water in the oven to create steam, which helps develop that crusty exterior.

Can I substitute fresh basil with dried basil?

Fresh basil provides a punch of vibrant flavor and color that dried basil just can’t match here. If fresh isn’t available, use dried basil sparingly as it’s more concentrated, but the freshness will be missed.

How long does the dough need to rise?

The first rise takes about 3 hours for the dough to double in size, developing flavor and texture. The second rise, after folding in the garlic, is about 1 hour. These times can vary slightly depending on your kitchen temperature.

Can I make the roasted garlic in advance?

Yes, roasting garlic ahead saves time. You can roast the garlic up to 3 days before and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Just bring it to room temperature before mixing it into the dough.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the simplicity and flavor of this Roasted Garlic No-Knead Bread with Basil Butter Recipe. It’s an approachable baking project that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and rewards you with a loaf that’s both rustic and refined. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the wonderful combination of crusty bread, sweet garlic, and fresh, fragrant basil butter—trust me, it’s a game changer for your homemade bread adventures!