This Rustic Gluten-Free Herb Bread is a game-changer for anyone avoiding gluten but craving that warm, homemade bread experience. With a delightful blend of herbs and a texture that's both hearty and tender, it's perfect for any meal or snack.
Gluten-free flour blend forms the base of this bread, providing structure without the gluten. Almond flour adds a subtle nutty flavor and richness, making the bread moist. Flaxseed meal contributes to the texture and offers a boost of fiber. Baking powder is the leavening agent that helps the bread rise to a perfect loaf. Salt enhances all the natural flavors. Dried rosemary and dried thyme infuse the bread with a delightful, aromatic taste. Olive oil keeps the bread moist and adds a touch of Mediterranean flair. Warm water helps activate the baking powder and blends everything smoothly. Honey provides a natural sweetness that balances the savory herbs. Apple cider vinegar reacts with the baking powder to create a light crumb. Finally, eggs bind everything together while adding richness and structure.
This bread pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or stew, making for a satisfying meal. Try it toasted with a smear of goat cheese and a drizzle of honey for a delightful snack or breakfast option. It also complements a fresh salad, adding a deliciously rustic touch.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the bread later on. In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, flaxseed meal, baking powder, salt, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Give it a good mix to evenly distribute the herbs and ensure no clumps of baking powder remain.
In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, warm water, honey, apple cider vinegar, and eggs until they meld into a smooth, cohesive mixture. This is your wet ingredient mixture, which you'll soon combine with the dry.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick but pourable, somewhat like a quick bread or muffin batter. Pour this batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake the bread in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps it set up and makes handling easier. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.