Pull-Apart Bread with Garlic

1. Activate the Yeast

Dissolve the yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar in 4 tablespoons of lukewarm water and leave to stand until the yeast is foamy. It takes about 5-10 minutes. If it is not foamy, start with new yeast. Meanwhile, weigh and measure all the ingredients.

2. Prepare the Dough

Heat 100 millilitres of milk in a small saucepan until warm but not boiling. Then add 30 grams of unsalted butter and let it melt completely.

In a large mixing bowl, mix 300 grams of plain flour and a pinch of salt. Pour the warm milk and butter mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 egg, and the activated yeast to the flour. Mix with the dough hook of an electric mixer for 5-7 minutes until a smooth and elastic dough forms. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

3. Make the Filling

While the dough is resting, melt 50 grams of unsalted butter. Chop 2-3 garlic cloves and ¼ bunch of fresh parsley. Transfer the garlic and parsley to a bowl, then add the melted butter along with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper.

4. Assemble the Bread

Grease a 15cm (6”) diameter round baking tin or baking ring to prevent the bread from sticking.

Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured work surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 30×30 cm (12″×12″). Spread the butter-garlic mixture evenly over the dough. Then cut the dough lengthwise into 4 strips. Cut the strips crosswise into 4 strips, creating 16 squares.

Lay the squares on top of each other, overlapping slightly. Roll up the first six squares and transfer them to the prepared baking ring. Continue adding the remaining squares around the centre, leaving small gaps between the dough piles, so that they can rise. Or hold the rolled part in one hand and place the other squares around it, overlapping.

Cover the baking tin with a tea towel and let the dough rise again in a warm place for about 30 minutes.

5. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the rack in the middle position of the oven.

6. Bake the Pull-Apart Bread

Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Serve

Once baked, allow the Pull-Apart Bread with Garlic to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before carefully removing the baking ring.

Brush the top of the bread with 20 grams of melted butter and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of colour and flavour.

Tips for Perfect Pull-Apart Bread

Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes by hand, or 5-7 minutes with a dough hook on a stand mixer. Proper kneading develops the gluten and gives the bread its characteristic soft and chewy texture.

Rising Time: Let the dough rise until it has doubled in volume. This may take approximately 1 hour, but the exact time may vary depending on room temperature. The dough should stand in a warm, draft-free place.

Arrangement: When stacking the dough squares, make sure they are slightly offset to create a more attractive, rose-like appearance.

Post-Baking: Brushing the bread with melted butter immediately after baking gives it flavour and a nice shine.

Storage Suggestions

Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Fridge: For longer storage, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezer: The Pull-Apart Bread can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow to cool completely and then wrap tightly in a freezer bag. Allow to thaw at room temperature before reheating. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) and wrap in foil to retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Warm: Serve the Pull-Apart Bread with Garlic warm to fully enjoy its soft, fluffy texture.

With Dips: Pair the bread with Sour Cream Dip, Homemade Cream Cheese Spread, or Garlic Parmesan Butter.

Side Dish: This bread goes wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, and salads.

Variations

Pull-Apart Bread with Cheese and Garlic: Sprinkle grated mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter filling before assembling the bread to add a cheesy touch.

Pull-Apart Bread with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a unique flavour profile.

Spicy Pull-Apart Bread: For a slight spiciness, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.

Related Recipes

Looking for more bread recipes? Try my Focaccia recipe or my delicious Turkish Pide Bread.

For a sweet alternative, try my Best Banana Bread recipe.

Conclusion

This Pull-Apart Bread with Garlic is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With its beautiful rose-like appearance and irresistible aroma, it is perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to enrich your dining experience with homemade sauce, butter, or dip. Enjoy the baking journey and the wonderful results!