Save This golden Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread Wreath is a knock-out centerpiece for any table. Soft, buttery rolls laced with fresh garlic and a shower of Parmesan make each bite irresistible. Whether for a holiday, potluck, or cozy family supper, it is unforgettable down to the last crumb.
My family considers this a holiday essential I first made it for a New Year’s Eve and ended up with everyone crowded around the kitchen, warm bread in hand before it could even reach the dining table
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure and softness to every bite Use a good quality unbleached flour for a tender crumb
- Active dry yeast: Ensures a lofty rise Always check your yeast is fresh and bubbly for reliable results
- Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and balances flavors Choose standard white sugar for best dough texture
- Fine sea salt: Rounds out the flavor Find a salt with fine crystals so it dissolves smoothly in the dough
- Warm milk: Makes for a soft crumb and even browning Whole milk adds richness but 2 percent also works
- Warm water: Kickstarts the yeast Make sure it is warm to the touch but not hot
- Unsalted butter: Adds true tenderness both in the dough and brushed on top Use high-quality butter for that unmistakable flavor
- Large egg: Binds the dough and aids in fluffiness Look for farm-fresh eggs if possible
- Fresh garlic: Minced garlic infuses every roll with pure flavor The fresher the cloves the brighter the aroma
- Fresh parsley: Brightens up each bite and adds freshness Always use fresh herbs and chop right before adding
- Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan creates irresistible savory crunch Grate it yourself for creamier and more flavorful results
Instructions
- Mix the Yeast Starter:
- Combine the warm milk warm water sugar and yeast in a large bowl Let it sit for about five minutes until you see a layer of foam forming on top which means the yeast is alive and ready to lift your dough
- Make the Dough:
- Add the flour salt softened butter and egg to the bowl Mix with a wooden spoon or the dough hook of a mixer Continue until you have a shaggy dough then knead by hand or machine for about eight minutes until it feels smooth bouncy and only a little tacky
- First Rise:
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl Cover with a damp towel Place somewhere warm and draft-free for about one hour until doubled in size This rise is key for tender rolls
- Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough to release excess air Divide evenly into twenty-four pieces Roll each piece between your palms into a smooth ball keeping the dough covered as you work to avoid drying out
- Arrange the Wreath:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment Arrange the dough balls in a large circle with a bit of space between them for expansion Cover and let rise thirty minutes until puffy
- Prepare Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl mix together the melted butter fresh garlic parsley and salt Give your kitchen a moment to fill with buttery garlicky aroma
- Brush and Top:
- Generously brush the risen dough balls with garlic butter making sure to get into the crevices Sprinkle Parmesan all over creating a snowy cheesy blanket
- Bake:
- Slip the tray into a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Bake about twenty-five minutes until the wreath is golden brown and aromatic
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the bread is out of the oven brush with extra garlic butter if you love extra shine and flavor Sprinkle more fresh parsley over the top Serve warm so everyone gets that dreamy pillow-soft bite
Save The way fresh garlic perfumes the kitchen has always been my favorite part Sometimes my kids swipe the first roll still steaming because they cannot resist the aroma and the crispy Parmesan topping
Storage Tips
Once cooled you can wrap leftover bread in foil and keep at room temperature for up to two days For longer storage refrigerate in an airtight container or freeze for up to a month To reheat wrap in foil and warm gently in a low oven so the bread stays soft inside and crusty on the outside
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a slightly chewier result For a sharper flavor try Asiago or Pecorino cheese in place of Parmesan To make it dairy-free swap in your favorite plant-based butter and a suitable cheese alternative just watch labels for allergens
Serving Suggestions
Place the wreath on a large board with a bowl of warm marinara sauce in the center For a more filling appetizer tuck cubes of mozzarella inside each dough ball before baking For breakfast serve slices alongside eggs or an herby vegetable frittata
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Inspired by both Italian garlic knots and American pull-apart breads this wreath shines as a festive holiday centerpiece In spring I sometimes swap in chives or tarragon for parsley to match the season Summer calls for a side of ripe tomatoes and herby dips
Save This festive bread is sure to become a new favorite at your table Serve it warm and watch every piece disappear before the meal truly begins
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works well. You can add it directly to the flour without proofing. Adjust rise time as needed.
- → How do I shape the dough into a wreath?
Divide the dough into balls and arrange them in a circle on parchment paper, leaving space for rising and baking.
- → Can I prepare this bread ahead of time?
Shape and arrange the wreath, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking for best results.
- → Is it possible to make this without eggs?
You can replace the egg with 3 tablespoons of milk or a commercial egg replacer for a different texture.
- → What cheese can I use for strict vegetarians?
Substitute Parmesan with a vegetarian hard cheese to ensure suitability for all dietary preferences.
- → How do I serve the pull-apart bread?
Serve it warm as an appetizer or centerpiece, accompanied by marinara or your favorite dip for extra flavor.