Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is simple enough for beginners, but impressive enough for dinner parties. The unique tear-and-share style makes it an interactive and fun dish that everyone will enjoy. The rich garlic butter, fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan add bold flavor, while the soft dough pulls apart easily, creating a mouthwatering experience. Whether served as a side dish or a stand-alone snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients

For Dough:

1/2 cup warm water
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups bread flour

For Topping:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 pinch salt
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
Fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add softened butter, milk, and salt, then gradually add bread flour. Mix and knead the dough for 7-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Divide the dough into two portions and let it rest for a few minutes. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
Prepare Garlic Butter: Mix melted butter, salt, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan (if using) in a small bowl.
Shape the Bread: Cut dough into small pieces, dip each piece into the garlic butter mixture, and arrange in a loaf pan.
Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 1 hour.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Bake the bread for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Finish: Brush the top with the remaining garlic butter mixture immediately after baking.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 loaves
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (includes rising)

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add mozzarella or cheddar between the dough pieces for a gooey, cheesy twist.
Herbed Garlic Bread: Add rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter mixture for a fresh, herby flavor.
Spicy Garlic Bread: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for a spicy kick.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual pieces for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, though bread flour gives a chewier texture.

2. How can I make this bread vegan?

Use vegan butter and non-dairy milk to make it vegan-friendly.

3. Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, prepare the dough, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before baking.

4. Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

5. How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) means it’s fully baked.

6. Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand; it will take a little more effort but still yield great results.

7. How can I make this bread spicier?

Add more garlic, red pepper flakes, or a touch of chili oil to the butter mixture for extra heat.

8. Can I add cheese to the dough?

Yes, you can add shredded cheese between the dough pieces before baking for a cheesy pull-apart version.

9. How do I make the bread more garlicky?

Use more garlic in the butter mixture or brush with garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.

10. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in equal amounts and skip the proofing step.

Conclusion

Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is a delightful, flavorful bread that adds a touch of magic to any meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for sharing. Whether served as a side dish or snack, it’s guaranteed to impress. The warm, buttery, garlicky flavor makes it a family favorite that you’ll want to bake again and again.

Pull-Apart Garlic Bread

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This Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is a soft, buttery, and garlicky delight that everyone will love! Made with fresh dough and infused with savory garlic butter, fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan, it’s a fun, interactive dish perfect for sharing at any gathering. Whether as a side dish or a standalone snack, this easy-to-make bread is guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal!

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (includes rising)
Yield: 2 loaves
Category: Bread, Side Dish, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add softened butter, milk, and salt, then gradually add bread flour. Mix and knead for 7-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Divide dough into two portions. Let it rest for a few minutes, then place in an oiled bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, salt, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan (if using).
Shape the Bread: Cut dough into small pieces. Dip each piece into the garlic butter mixture and arrange them in a loaf pan.
Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 1 hour.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Finish: Brush the top with the remaining garlic butter mixture immediately after baking.