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 remember making this bread last Christmas and how it brought everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma and festive look.
Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 7 g (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast 1 tsp sugar 1&half tsp salt 250 ml (1 cup) warm milk 60 g (1¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted 2 large eggs
- Filling & Topping: 100 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella 50 g (1&half 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&ndash10 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&ndash30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 10:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Save This bread has become a family tradition, especially during the holidays, bringing everyone joy and warmth.
Notes
For a richer taste, add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed onions to the filling. Serve with a side of marinara or garlic butter for dipping. You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Measuring cups and spoons Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Nutritional Information
Calories 240 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 31 g Protein 8 g per serving
Save This festive bread wreath is sure to be the star of your holiday table and is fun for everyone to pull apart and enjoy.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What type of flour is best for this bread?
All-purpose flour works well, providing the right structure and softness to the dough.
- → Can I use other herbs instead of parsley, chives, and rosemary?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano can be substituted based on preference.
- → How do I ensure the dough rises properly?
Use warm milk and active yeast, allow the dough to rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size, typically about an hour.
- → Can I prepare this bread ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the shaped dough overnight to develop deeper flavors before baking.
- → What toppings add extra texture and flavor?
Sprinkling sesame or poppy seeds before baking adds a nice crunch and subtle flavor contrast.