Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s a loaf of Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread. Recently, I made this delightful recipe for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit! As soon as it came out of the oven, the golden-brown crust and the melty, gooey cheese drew everyone in. It became the star of the evening, with family members asking for seconds—and even thirds! This bread is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that brings people together around the dinner table.

Ingredients

Tangzhong:

• 20g bread flour
• 80g whole milk

Main Dough:

• 300g bread flour
• 15g granulated sugar
• 6g sea salt
• 6g instant dry yeast
• All the tangzhong
• 90g whole milk (room temperature, 77°F/25°C)
• 40g cream cheese (full fat)
• 50g egg (1 medium egg)
• 20g unsalted butter (softened)

Roasted Garlic Butter:

• 1 head garlic
• ½ tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• 70g unsalted butter
• 1 ½ tbsp chopped parsley
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Toppings:

• 100g grated mozzarella (plus a little extra)

Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tangzhong:
In a small pot, combine the bread flour and whole milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and reaches 150°F (65°C). Transfer the tangzhong to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap touching the surface, and let it cool to room temperature.

2. Make the Main Dough:
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine all dough ingredients except for the butter. Knead the mixture for about 10 minutes until it becomes a smooth dough. Then, add the softened butter and knead for an additional 10-20 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is smooth.

3. First Proof:
Shape the dough into a round and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it proof in a warm spot (78°F/26°C) for 1½-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

4. Roast the Garlic:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Chop the top off the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then wrap it in foil or place it in a covered dish. Bake for 45-60 minutes until the garlic is soft. Once cool, squeeze the garlic into a bowl and mix it with softened butter, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

5. Shape the Bread:
Once the dough has doubled, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a 12×12-inch square. Spread the roasted garlic butter over the dough and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top. Cut the dough into 12 pieces and arrange them vertically in a 7×3.4-inch bread pan.

6. Second Proof:
Cover the pan and let it proof for another 30-45 minutes until the dough is puffy.

7. Bake:
Preheat your oven again to 350°F (180°C). Brush the top of the bread with the egg wash, sprinkle with any extra mozzarella, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 200°F (95°C) and the top is golden brown.

8. Serve:
Let the bread cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy the delightful pull-apart texture!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 1 loaf (approx. 12 servings)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Active Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Inactive Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (proofing and roasting)

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a side dish with pasta or salads.
• Pair with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Use as a snack while watching movies or during game nights.
• Slice into pieces for a fun addition to a charcuterie board.
• Enjoy alongside soups for a comforting meal.

Additional Tips

1. Check Your Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date. A small test with warm water and sugar can confirm its liveliness.
2. Avoid Over-kneading: Once the dough is smooth and elastic, stop kneading to prevent a tough texture.
3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough rise better and creates a softer bread.
4. Garlic Butter Variations: Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter for a different flavor profile.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and shape the bread the night before. Refrigerate overnight, then let it come to room temperature before baking.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Varieties: Swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Herbed Garlic Bread: Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the garlic butter for added freshness.
• Stuffed Pull-Apart Bread: Incorporate chopped cooked bacon or ham into the cheese filling for a meaty addition.
• Sweet Version: For a dessert twist, try using cinnamon sugar instead of garlic butter and top with cream cheese frosting after baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with spaghetti, lasagna, or a rich marinara sauce.
• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Add to your brunch table with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Unbaked dough can be frozen after shaping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to rise before baking.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?
A: Yes, you can knead the dough by hand, but it may take a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency.

Q2: What if I don’t have cream cheese?
A: You can substitute with mascarpone or omit it altogether, though it adds a nice creaminess.

Q3: How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
A: The internal temperature should reach 200°F (95°C), and the top should be golden brown.

Q4: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
A: Yes, but bread flour gives a chewier texture that enhances the pull-apart effect.

Q5: What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
A: Ensure your yeast is active and that the dough is kept in a warm environment. If it still doesn’t rise, it may be too old or inactive.

Q6: Can I use roasted garlic from a jar?
A: Yes, you can use jarred roasted garlic, but the flavor might be less intense compared to freshly roasted garlic.

Q7: How can I make this bread vegan?
A: Substitute the egg with a flax egg, use plant-based cream cheese, and replace the butter with vegan alternatives.

Q8: How do I store leftover garlic bread?
A: Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Q9: Can I bake this bread in a different pan?
A: Yes, a round or different-sized loaf pan works, but the baking time may vary.

Q10: How do I reheat the bread?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is a delightful treat that elevates any meal and brings a sense of comfort to the table. Its crispy exterior and gooey interior are perfect for sharing, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve it at a casual gathering or as a special side dish, this bread will become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. Try making it for your next event, and watch as it becomes an instant favorite!

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