Sourdough Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread is a soft, fluffy, and flavorful loaf infused with rich garlic butter and fresh herbs. Each bite is perfectly buttery and aromatic, making it an irresistible side dish or snack. Whether served with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own, this shareable bread is a must-try for sourdough lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and flavorful – Layers of tender sourdough infused with buttery garlic goodness.
- Great for sharing – A fun, pull-apart style loaf perfect for gatherings.
- Uses sourdough starter or discard – A great way to repurpose extra sourdough.
- Versatile – Serve as a side, snack, or appetizer.
- Make-ahead friendly – Prepare the dough in advance for added convenience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter (or discard)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, salt, sugar, garlic powder, warm water, and olive oil.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let rest for 4-6 hours (or overnight for a more developed sourdough flavor).
Shape the Bread:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and brush with melted garlic butter.
- Slice into equal strips, stack them, and place them into the loaf pan.
Bake & Serve:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before pulling apart and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Version – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan between the layers before baking.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the garlic butter.
- Whole Wheat Alternative – Substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Herb Infusion – Experiment with rosemary, basil, or thyme for different flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend and a gluten-free sourdough starter.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze baked bread in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use sourdough discard instead of an active starter?
Yes, but using an active starter will give a better texture and slight rise.
2. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking.
3. Can I add cheese to this bread?
Absolutely! Adding cheese between the layers creates a deliciously cheesy version.
4. What’s the best way to knead the dough?
You can knead by hand for 8-10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
5. Can I bake this bread in a different pan?
Yes, a round cake pan or a cast iron skillet will also work well.
6. How do I get a crispier crust?
Brush extra butter on top before baking and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. What can I serve with this bread?
It pairs well with pasta, soups, roasted meats, or as a standalone appetizer.
8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs add more flavor—use three times the amount compared to dried herbs.
9. Can I make this bread in an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, checking frequently.
10. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap the bread in foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Conclusion
Sourdough Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful and flavorful twist on traditional sourdough, with layers of buttery garlic goodness in every bite. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, dipped in marinara sauce, or alongside a hearty meal, this shareable bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this easy and delicious recipe today!
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