Save A beautiful, soft pull-apart bread shaped as a wreath, perfect for holiday gatherings. Flavored with herbs and cheese, this centerpiece is fun to share and irresistibly delicious.
I have found this bread wreath to be a showstopper at every family party, bringing everyone together to share and enjoy its warm cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour, 7 g (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast, 1 tsp sugar, 1½ tsp salt, 250 ml (1 cup) warm milk, 60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter melted, 2 large eggs
- Filling & Topping: 100 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella, 50 g (½ cup) grated parmesan, 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary finely chopped, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 egg beaten (for egg wash), 2 tbsp sesame or poppy seeds (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add flour, salt, melted butter, and eggs. Mix to form a soft dough. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 3:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 4:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 5:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 24 equal pieces.
- Step 6:
- Flatten each piece, fill with a pinch of mozzarella, parmesan, and herbs, then pinch to seal and shape into a ball.
- Step 7:
- Arrange the balls in a ring (wreath shape) on the prepared baking sheet, slightly touching.
- Step 8:
- Brush with olive oil and beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 10:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Save This recipe has become a tradition in my family us gathered around the table enjoying both the bread and the warmth it brings us all.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl measuring cups and spoons baking sheet parchment paper pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains gluten wheat milk eggs and cheese dairy check cheese labels for specific allergens if needed
Nutritional Information
Calories 240 total fat 9 g carbohydrates 31 g protein 8 g
Save This festive bread wreath is sure to impress with its flavors and festive appearance enhancing any holiday table.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this bread?
Fresh parsley, chives, and rosemary are used to infuse the bread with vibrant herbal notes that complement the cheeses.
- → How can I ensure the dough rises properly?
Use warm milk and fresh yeast, letting the mixture sit until foamy before kneading to ensure a good rise during proofing.
- → Can I customize the filling?
Yes, adding sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed onions to the cheese and herbs mixture adds depth and complexity to the filling.
- → What is the best way to achieve a golden crust?
Brushing the shaped dough with olive oil and beaten egg before baking helps develop a shiny, golden-brown crust.
- → How should I serve this bread wreath?
It's delightful served warm, either on its own or with dipping options like garlic butter or marinara sauce to enhance flavors.
- → Can the dough be prepared in advance?
Yes, refrigerating the dough overnight allows flavors to develop and can make the baking process more flexible.