Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of garlic and cheese with the fun of tearing apart soft, fluffy bread. This classic version is made with a simple dough that rises beautifully, creating a light and airy texture that perfectly complements the rich, savory filling. As you pull apart each piece, you’ll be greeted with melted cheese and aromatic garlic, making it nearly impossible to resist.
Historically, pull-apart bread has roots in various cultures, often seen in communal dining settings where sharing food is a cherished tradition. This version leans into the American love for cheesy, gooey snacks, making it a favorite at parties, game days, or cozy family dinners. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good excuse to get their hands messy?
To make this dish even more appealing, consider pairing it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese and garlic, adding a delightful contrast. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember, the only thing better than cheesy garlic bread is more cheesy garlic bread!
So, roll up your sleeves and prepare for some delicious fun. This cheesy garlic pull-apart bread is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this bread is sure to be a hit. Just be prepared for the inevitable “who took the last piece?” debate—because let’s face it, no one wants to be the one left without a cheesy morsel!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1.5 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 stick butter, melted
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine 1.5 cups of warm water (about 110°F) with 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This is the dough’s time to shine, so be patient!
- While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine 1 stick of melted butter with 4 minced garlic cloves. This will infuse the bread with a rich garlic flavor.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into small pieces, about the size of a golf ball. This will make it easier to pull apart later.
- Dip each piece of dough into the garlic butter mixture, then roll it in shredded mozzarella cheese. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum cheesiness.
- Layer the coated dough balls in a greased bundt pan or a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour any remaining garlic butter over the top, ensuring every piece gets a taste of that deliciousness.
- Cover the pan with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise will make your bread even fluffier.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to pull apart.
- Carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter. If any pieces stick, gently coax them out with a spatula. Serve warm and watch as your guests dive in!
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top before serving. It adds a nice color and flavor contrast.
- Enjoy your cheesy garlic pull-apart bread with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Just remember, sharing is caring—unless it’s the last piece!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbs g: 45
- Protein g: 12
- Fat g: 15
- Sugar g: 1
