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Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread Wreath

cheesy garlic pull-apart bread wreath - featured image

This festive cheesy garlic pull-apart bread wreath is a show-stopping appetizer, featuring pillowy homemade dough stuffed with gooey cheese and fragrant garlic butter. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, it’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 6 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 2 tablespoons extra Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Measure warm water into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in yeast and sugar, stir gently, and let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Drizzle in olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
  5. Punch down the rested dough and divide into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, flatten slightly, and fill with a pinch of mozzarella and cheddar. Pinch edges to seal and roll back into a ball.
  6. Arrange dough balls in a wreath shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan, leaving space for rising.
  7. Brush dough balls generously with garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.
  8. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush dough balls with egg wash (egg beaten with water).
  10. Bake for 22-25 minutes, until golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
  11. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a 1:1 GF flour blend. Dairy-free cheese and butter substitutes work well. Prep ahead by assembling the wreath and refrigerating overnight. For extra crispy bottoms, bake on a pizza stone. Use a kitchen scale for even dough balls. Serve with marinara or ranch dip for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy garlic bread, pull-apart bread, bread wreath, holiday appetizer, party food, festive bread, easy appetizer, garlic cheese bread