Lemon Rosemary Bread combines the bright zest of lemon with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary, creating a soft, fragrant loaf that’s ideal for dinner or as a snack.
This artisan-style bread offers a balance of citrusy freshness and herby depth. Perfect with a drizzle of olive oil or paired with soups and salads, it’s a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Ingredients:
- 400g (3 cups) bread flour
- 240ml (1 cup) warm water
- 7g (2 tsp) instant yeast
- 10g (1 1/2 tsp) salt
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 60ml (4 tbsp) olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Gently knead in the rosemary and lemon zest until evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a round or loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Lemon Rosemary Bread Tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rosemary and freshly grated lemon zest offer the most vibrant flavors.
- Balance Flavors: Add just enough lemon juice to balance the herbal notes without overpowering.
- Infuse the Oil: Use olive oil infused with rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
- Don’t Skip Proofing: Allow the dough to rise fully to achieve a light and airy texture.
- Add a Glaze: A simple lemon glaze can elevate the bread for a sweeter touch.
Lemon Rosemary Bread Variations:
- Savory Lemon Rosemary Bread: Add garlic or Parmesan for a savory version.
- Sweet Lemon Rosemary Bread: Incorporate honey or drizzle a lemon glaze on top.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace part of the flour with whole wheat for a rustic feel.
- Lemon Rosemary Focaccia: Flatten the dough and bake it as focaccia for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs.
- Seeded Lemon Rosemary Bread: Sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds on top for added texture.