Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread dough (or store-bought); ¼ cup melted butter; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1 tsp dried parsley; ½ tsp salt

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Short Description

Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread is a delicious, buttery, and aromatic bread infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and melted butter. This soft, fluffy bread is perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or as an appetizer for gatherings. The pull-apart design makes it easy to share, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor – The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs creates a rich and savory taste.
Soft and Fluffy Texture – The dough bakes into a light, airy bread with a golden, crispy crust.
Perfect for Sharing – The pull-apart design makes it easy to enjoy with family and friends.
Versatile – Serve it as a side, appetizer, or snack.
Customizable – You can experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or even add a spicy kick.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Instant yeast
Warm milk
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Garlic cloves (minced)
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Fresh thyme (chopped)
Fresh rosemary (chopped)
Salt
Egg

Directions

Prepare the Dough – In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mix Ingredients – Add melted butter, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms. Knead until smooth.
Let the Dough Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter – In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
Shape the Dough – Roll out the dough and cut it into small squares or strips. Dip each piece into the garlic herb butter and layer them in a greased loaf pan.
Second Rise – Cover and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes.
Bake – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve – Let it cool slightly before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar between the layers for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic butter.
Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast bread.
Different Herbs – Try basil, oregano, or chives for a unique flavor.
Sweet Version – Swap garlic and herbs for cinnamon and sugar, and drizzle with icing.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes or microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If the yeast mixture does not foam after 10 minutes, it may be inactive. Start with fresh yeast for best results.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, shape it, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

What can I serve with Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread?

It pairs well with soups, pasta dishes, salads, or as a side for grilled meats.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use pre-made biscuit or pizza dough for a quicker version.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Substitute butter with olive oil and use a plant-based milk alternative.

Why is my bread dense?

Over-kneading or not letting the dough rise properly can lead to dense bread. Ensure the yeast is active and the dough is well-rested.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but use half the amount since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

How do I get a crispier crust?

Bake for a few extra minutes or brush the top with melted butter before baking.

Can I add meat to this bread?

Yes, crumbled cooked bacon or pepperoni can be added for extra flavor.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well and consider lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread is a flavorful, aromatic, and shareable bread that is perfect for any meal. Its buttery garlic herb flavor, soft texture, and pull-apart design make it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, this bread is sure to impress. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy homemade goodness in every bite.