Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread

If you’re looking for a show-stopping bread that will make your kitchen smell heavenly, then this Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home. There’s something magical about the combination of warm, fluffy bread infused with aromatic garlic and rosemary. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in with friends. Trust me, once you pull this bread apart and take a bite, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of it!

This pull apart bread is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. The best part? You can customize the filling with your favorite cheese! I love using shredded parmesan, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or white cheddar. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delightful loaf to life!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love tearing off pieces of this flavorful bread at the dinner table.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and let it rise overnight for an effortless baking experience.
• Deliciously Versatile: Customize your filling with any cheese or herbs you have on hand for a unique twist every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread are wholesome and straightforward. You probably already have many of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk
• 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 2 and 1/3 cups (291g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, extra soft
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (95g) shredded parmesan, mozzarella, or white cheddar cheese (or your favorite shredded cheese)
• 1 Tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter, melted
• Coarse or flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Variations

One of the wonderful things about this Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread is its flexibility. You can easily tweak it to suit your taste buds or what you have on hand!

• Swap the Cheese: Use your favorite cheese! Try gouda, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for some kick.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano alongside the rosemary for a fresh twist.
• Garlic Lovers Unite: For an extra garlicky flavor, increase the amount of minced garlic in the filling.

How to Make Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by placing the yeast and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment. If you don’t have one, don’t worry! A large mixing bowl works just fine. Heat your milk until it’s warm to touch—about 110°F (43°C)—and pour it over the yeast mixture. Gently whisk everything together and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential because it activates the yeast, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Next, add in the softened butter, egg, flour, salt, garlic powder, and rosemary. Beat on low speed until everything comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl—this should take around three minutes. If needed, sprinkle in more flour one tablespoon at a time until your dough forms a soft ball that isn’t sticky.

Step 3: Knead Until Perfectly Smooth

Switch to a dough hook if you’re using a stand mixer and knead for an additional five minutes. If kneading by hand, do so on a lightly floured surface. Proper kneading is crucial because it develops gluten, which gives your bread structure and texture. After kneading, poke the dough gently; if it bounces back slowly, it’s ready to rise!

Step 4: Let It Rise

Shape your kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl—nonstick spray works wonders here! Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and set it in a warm spot to rise until doubled in size—this usually takes about an hour to ninety minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Your Filling

While your dough is rising beautifully, mix up that flavorful filling! In a medium bowl, combine soft butter with rosemary, parsley, garlic, and salt until well blended. This mixture will bring an amazing flavor profile to each piece of pull-apart goodness.

Step 6: Shape Your Dough Pieces

Once risen, punch down your dough gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into twelve equal pieces—each piece should be slightly larger than a golf ball. Flatten each piece into roughly four-inch circles using lightly floured hands. Spread one to two teaspoons of that savory filling on each circle before adding some shredded cheese on top.

Step 7: Assemble Your Loaf

Fold each filled circle in half round side up and line them up snugly inside your greased loaf pan. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for that finishing touch!

Bake according to instructions until golden brown and irresistible—your house will smell like heaven! Enjoy pulling apart each flavorful piece with family or friends; I’m sure they’ll appreciate every bite just as much as you do!

Pro Tips for Making Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Making pull apart bread can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’re sure to impress at your next gathering!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley really elevate the flavor of your bread. They bring a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can’t match.
• Temperature Matters: Ensure that your milk is warm but not hot when activating the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold will slow down the activation process, leading to a denser bread.
• Monitor Your Dough: The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky after kneading. If it feels too dry, add a little more liquid; if too sticky, sprinkle in some flour. The right texture will lead to fluffy and tender bread.
• Let it Rise: Don’t rush the rising time! Allowing the dough to double in size is crucial for developing that light and airy texture. A warm spot helps speed this up; just make sure it’s not too hot!
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your cheese or add different herbs and spices to the filling. This recipe is versatile, and you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences!

How to Serve Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread

This Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Here are some tips on how you can present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or rosemary on top before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the warm bread enhances its richness and adds a lovely sheen.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the bread beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a hearty element that pairs wonderfully with the softness of the pull apart bread.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic combo makes for a comforting meal—dipping pieces of warm bread into creamy tomato soup is simply divine!
• Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For those who love garlic, pairing this bread with creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic will create an indulgent feast.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread! It’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).

Make Ahead and Storage

This Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and enjoy it fresh throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To avoid freezer burn, ensure there’s as little air as possible in the packaging.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen bread overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For a crispy texture, unwrap and bake an additional 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use different herbs in my Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to suit your taste preferences.

What can I serve with Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as an appetizer on its own. It’s an excellent addition to any meal!

How do I make sure my Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread rises properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the milk is warm but not hot (around 110°F/43°C) when mixing. A warm environment helps the dough rise beautifully!

Can I prepare the dough for Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to make this Rosemary Garlic Pull Apart Bread! It’s such a comforting treat that fills your home with lovely aromas. Whether you share it with friends or keep it all for yourself (no judgment here!), I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and enjoy every moment of crafting this delicious bread!