Pull Apart Garlic Bread

Hey there, food enthusiasts! Get ready to elevate your snacking game with a dish that’s not just a crowd-pleaser, but a guaranteed hit at any gathering. We’re diving into the world of Pull Apart Garlic Bread—a mouthwatering marvel that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Imagine tender, buttery bread studded with garlicky goodness and topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan. It’s the kind of bread that makes every meal feel like a celebration. Let’s get you started on crafting this irresistible treat!

So, what makes this pull apart garlic bread so special? It’s all about the blend of flavors and textures that come together in every gooey, buttery bite. This isn’t just your average garlic bread—each piece pulls apart effortlessly, revealing layers of melted cheese and a savory garlic infusion that will have you reaching for more. It’s perfect for dipping into marinara, as a side for pasta dishes, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing for a game day party, or just want a tasty treat to enjoy with your favorite movie, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this show-stopping dish!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 1⁄2 cup Warm Water (105-110 degrees F)
• 1 envelope Rapid Rise Yeast
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 1 1⁄2 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1 1⁄4 cup Whole Wheat Flour
• 2 tbsp Branch and Vine Garlic Olive Oil
• 2 1⁄2 cup All-Purpose Flour, plus more as needed

For the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:

• 1⁄4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
• 1 1⁄2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
• 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 1⁄4 tsp Kosher Salt
• 2 tbsp Freshly Grated Parmesan

For Serving:

• 1 cup Marinara Sauce

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Pull Apart Garlic Bread

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
   • Add the kosher salt, whole wheat flour, and garlic olive oil. Mix well.
   • Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
   • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Lightly oil a 6-ounce ramekin or coat it with nonstick spray. Place it in the center of the prepared baking sheet and fill it with water.
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 1-ounce pieces (about 22-24 pieces). Flatten each piece into a disk, then shape into a ball.
3. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and salt.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Arrange the dough balls in a circular pattern around the ramekin on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Carefully remove the ramekin and discard the water. Fill the ramekin with marinara sauce and return it to the center of the baking sheet.
   • Brush the tops of the dough balls with any remaining garlic butter mixture.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the pull apart garlic bread warm, letting everyone pull apart the delicious, garlicky bread and dip it into the marinara sauce.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a hint of spice.
• Texture Perfection: Make sure your dough is well-kneaded for a light and airy texture. Don’t skip the rising time—it’s crucial for achieving that perfect pull-apart consistency.
• Cheesy Goodness: For an extra cheesy version, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella over the dough balls before baking.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the dough balls have enough space between them to rise properly. This will help them bake evenly and avoid sticking together.

Variations

1. Cheesy Pull Apart Bread: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese in between the dough balls.
2. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in the garlic butter mixture.
3. Bacon Bits: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.
4. Olive Tapenade: Spread a layer of olive tapenade on the dough before shaping into balls.
5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the dough for a tangy twist.
6. Pesto Pull Apart Bread: Use basil pesto in place of the garlic butter for an herby, nutty flavor.
7. Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the garlic mixture for some heat.
8. Parmesan and Herbs: Mix additional Parmesan with Italian seasoning for a flavorful crust.
9. Garlic Butter with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest to the garlic butter for a fresh, zesty flavor.
10. Stuffed Garlic Bread: Stuff the dough balls with a small piece of cheese or ham before baking.

What to Serve It With

1. Marinara Sauce: Classic choice for dipping and adding a tangy kick.
2. Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and rich, perfect for a decadent twist.
3. Pesto Sauce: A vibrant alternative that pairs beautifully with the garlic flavors.
4. Ranch Dressing: For a creamy, herby dipping option.
5. Garlic Aioli: Add an extra layer of garlic flavor with this creamy spread.
6. Cheese Dip: A gooey, cheesy dip complements the bread’s flavors.
7. Soup: Pair with a hearty tomato or minestrone soup.
8. Salad: Serve alongside a fresh, crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
9. Grilled Meats: Perfect with grilled chicken or steak for a satisfying meal.
10. Charcuterie Board: Add to a charcuterie board for a delightful appetizer.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers: Store any leftover pull apart garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crispy texture. You can also reheat individual pieces in a toaster oven.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked bread by placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Quantity for Family Gatherings

For a family gathering, one pan of pull apart garlic bread should suffice for 6-8 people. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, consider doubling the recipe or preparing additional pans.

Advance Preparation

You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After shaping the dough balls, cover them tightly and refrigerate. Before baking, let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes. You can also freeze the assembled dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.