Italian Herb Braid Recipe

Recreate a beloved 90s classic! This light and aromatic Italian Herb Braid recipe, originally found on a Fleischmann's RapidRise Yeast package, is bursting with fresh herb flavor without being overpowering. Perfect for beginner bakers, this recipe is easily adaptable to a bread machine (using regular yeast) for a perfectly sized 1.5lb loaf. Get ready for a soft, subtly seasoned bread that's perfect alongside soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 65 mins
Calories 214.6 kcal
Protein 10g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Italian Herb Braid 50

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Italian Herb Braid

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How to Make Italian Herb Braid

  1. In a large bowl (or your bread machine), combine 1 cup warm water (105-115°F), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  2. Add 3 cups all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast.
  3. If using a bread machine, select the dough setting. If mixing by hand, knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (or 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs such as oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme).
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a braid (see video tutorials online for guidance).
  7. Place the braid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Let the braid rise for another 30 minutes.
  10. Brush the braid with olive oil or an egg wash for a golden-brown crust.
  11. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  12. Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

13 g

Sugar

13g

Fat

14g

Carbs

12g

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