Savory Pull-Apart Bread Recipe: A Delicious Crowd-Pleaser

Savory pull-apart bread is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, from casual game nights to elegant holiday feasts. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating a mouthwatering, shareable loaf that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. It’s surprisingly simple to make, and the aroma alone is worth the effort.

What is Savory Pull-Apart Bread?

Savory pull-apart bread, sometimes called tear-and-share bread, is essentially a loaf of bread designed to be easily separated into individual portions. Instead of slicing, you simply pull off a piece. It’s the ultimate interactive food experience! What sets it apart from sweet pull-apart breads is the focus on savory flavors, utilizing ingredients like herbs, cheeses, garlic, and various spices. The bread itself can be anything from a simple white bread to a rich, buttery brioche. This Savory Pull-apart Bread Recipe focuses on a balance of flavor and texture, ensuring every pull is a delight.

Savory Pull-Apart Bread Recipe Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious savory pull-apart bread recipe:

• 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and thyme)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Savory Pull-Apart Bread

1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Combine wet ingredients: Whisk in the egg and melted butter.
3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for the same amount of time.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine herbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
7. Assemble the bread: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the surface.
8. Cut and stack: Cut the dough into equal-sized squares. Stack the squares on top of each other, creating a layered pile.
9. Second rise: Place the stacked dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
10. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Savory Pull-Apart Bread

• Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t foam after 10 minutes in warm milk, it might be inactive, and you’ll need to start again.
• Dough consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. Adjust the flour amount as needed.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herb combinations to create your own signature flavor. Rosemary, oregano, and basil are excellent choices.
• Baking time: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness around the 35-minute mark. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Kneading Savory Pull-Apart Bread Dough

Serving and Storage

This savory pull-apart bread is best served warm, straight from the oven. It’s fantastic on its own or paired with soups, salads, or dips. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

“Freshly baked savory pull-apart bread is a sensory experience,” says renowned baker, Amelia Hearthstone. “The aroma, the warmth, the satisfying pull—it’s pure comfort food at its finest.”

Variations on this Savory Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Looking to switch things up? This savory pull-apart bread recipe is incredibly versatile. Consider adding some shredded cheese into the dough itself for an extra cheesy pull. You can also replace the herbs with everything bagel seasoning for a different flavor profile. Or, for a truly decadent treat, brush the baked bread with garlic butter for an extra layer of richness. Check out our Cheese stuffed bread recipe for another delicious cheesy bread option!

Conclusion

This savory pull-apart bread recipe is a surefire way to impress your friends and family. With its simple instructions and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Now, go forth and bake some delicious, shareable memories! And for another fun and easy bread recipe, try our Bubble bread recipe.

FAQ

1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
2. Can I make this bread ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the bread a day ahead and reheat it before serving.
3. What can I serve with savory pull-apart bread? This bread pairs well with soups, salads, dips, and chili.
4. Can I freeze this bread? Yes, you can freeze the baked bread for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
5. How do I know when the bread is done? The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
6. Can I use dried herbs? Yes, you can use dried herbs. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs.
7. Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Absolutely! Get creative and add your favorite cheeses, spices, or even cooked meats. Just be mindful of the moisture content.