Garlic Butter Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful, shareable bread perfect for gatherings, dinners, or just a cozy night in. This bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its golden, buttery, and garlicky goodness. The bread is soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, making it a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Shape the Bread
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cut the Dough: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into small squares, about 1-2 inches in size.
- Arrange in the Pan: Grease a round baking pan. Place the dough squares in the pan, arranging them in a slightly overlapping pattern.
Step 4: Add the Garlic Butter
- Pour Over Dough: Pour the garlic butter evenly over the dough squares, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread is cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Flour: You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for added flavor.
- Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the bread before baking for a cheesy twist.
Variations
Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread:
- Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese between the layers of dough squares before baking.
Herbed Pull-Apart Bread:
- Add a mixture of dried herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme) to the dough for an herby flavor.
Spicy Pull-Apart Bread:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Even Baking: Make sure the dough squares are roughly the same size for even baking.
- Room Temperature Butter: Use room temperature butter to ensure it spreads evenly.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread to check for doneness. It should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
- Dips: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy cheese dip.
- Main Courses: This bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, and salads.
- Appetizers: Serve as an appetizer at parties and gatherings.
Garlic Butter Pull-Apart Bread is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Its buttery, garlicky flavor makes it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delightful treat on its own. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this bread is sure to impress. Enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of freshly baked garlic butter pull-apart bread!
