Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

A delicious recipe for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. This garlic-infused bread is a delightful way to use up your sourdough discard while offering a fun and interactive eating experience. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this pull-apart bread is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation – This recipe uses straightforward steps that make it easy for bakers of all levels to follow.
• Flavorful Garlic Infusion – The combination of garlic powder and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy this bread with soups, salads, or on its own as a tasty snack.
• Perfect for Sharing – The pull-apart style encourages sharing and makes it an excellent choice for parties or family dinners.
• Utilizes Sourdough Discard – Reduce waste by incorporating leftover sourdough into this delicious bread.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a seamless baking experience. Having the right equipment ensures that you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Large greased bowl
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Kitchen scale (optional)
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook – Makes mixing and kneading easier, saving time and effort compared to hand-kneading.
• Kitchen scale – Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results, especially when dividing the dough.

Ingredients

A delicious recipe for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread – a tasty and fun way to enjoy your garlic bread!

• ¼ cup non-dairy or regular dairy milk (warmed to 110℉)
• 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 cups + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 200 grams (about ¾ cup) sourdough discard (unfed, at room temperature)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 7 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped)
• 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• flaky sea salt (for topping)

How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine the warmed milk, instant yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add the flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, chopped herbs, salt, and garlic powder. With the mixer on low speed:
1. Slowly add 2 Tablespoons of melted butter.
2. Increase speed to medium and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a smooth work surface. Knead until a smooth dough forms, about 3–4 minutes:
The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.
If needed, adjust consistency by adding more flour or milk (1 Tablespoon / 10 grams at a time).

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a large greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap:
Let rise for about 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Make the Topping

While waiting for the dough to rise:
1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, chopped herbs, garlic powder, and kosher salt.
2. Mix until combined.
3. Set aside 1 Tablespoon of this mixture to brush on the loaf after baking.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

After rising:
1. Turn out the dough onto a work surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
2. Flatten each piece into a rough circle about 4 inches in diameter.
3. Spread each piece with 1–2 teaspoons of the butter mixture.
4. Fold each piece in half like a taco and place them fold-side down in the prepared loaf pan.

Step 6: Final Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel:
Let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffed but not exceeding edges of pan.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉ while allowing your dough to complete its final rise.

Step 8: Bake

Bake your loaf for about 30 minutes:
1. Cover with aluminum foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown.
2. If using a kitchen thermometer, check that internal temperature reaches about 200℉.
3. Brush with remaining butter mixture while still warm and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Let cool in pan for about 10 minutes, then serve warm!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer or a side dish, it pairs wonderfully with many flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Marinara Sauce

• Dip slices of the pull-apart bread into warm marinara sauce for a classic Italian touch.

As a Side for Soup

• Serve alongside a hearty soup, like minestrone or tomato basil, to soak up the delicious broth.

With Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar

• Drizzle with high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple yet satisfying accompaniment.

Topped with Cheese

• Melt some mozzarella or parmesan on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal that complements the richness of the bread.

With Grilled Meats

• Enjoy it alongside grilled chicken or steak to enhance your barbecue feast.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Achieving the perfect Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your sourdough discard and egg are at room temperature for optimal mixing and rising.
• Knead thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten, giving your bread structure.
• Monitor rising times: Keep an eye on how long your dough rises; rising times can vary based on temperature and humidity.
• Preheat the oven properly: Make sure your oven reaches 350℉ before baking for even cooking.
• Cover with foil if browning too fast: If the top browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil during baking to prevent burning.
• Let cool before slicing: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before slicing to ensure it holds its shape well.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a burst of flavor that complements the garlic bread perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables provide a healthy and tasty contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make a refreshing side that brightens up any meal.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the garlic bread.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a deliciously smoky flavor that enhances any dish.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges with herbs are perfect for dipping into sauces or enjoying alongside your pull-apart bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread can be delightful, but there are some common mistakes that might hinder your baking success.

• Boldly skipping the rise time: Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to dense bread. Always let it double in size for the best texture.
• Boldly ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold milk or butter can slow down yeast activation. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature or warmed as directed.
• Boldly over-flouring the dough: Adding too much flour while kneading can make your bread dry. Start with less and add only if necessary to maintain a slightly tacky consistency.
• Boldly rushing the baking process: Baking on too high heat or without covering can result in uneven cooking. Follow the temperature and timing closely for even browning.
• Boldly forgetting to brush with butter: Skipping the final brush of melted butter affects flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread special?

This recipe uses sourdough discard, reducing waste while adding unique flavor and texture. It’s a delicious way to utilize leftover sourdough starter!

Can I customize my Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs, cheeses, or spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

How long does it take to make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?

The total time from start to finish is around 200 minutes, which includes prep, rising, and baking time.

What if I don’t have sourdough discard?

You can substitute with additional all-purpose flour and water, but you will lose some of the unique flavors that sourdough provides.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is an amazing blend of comfort and creativity. Its customizable nature allows you to experiment with flavors while minimizing food waste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home!