Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread (Updated)
Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread (Updated) 🧄 🌱 🍞 is a medium Italian-American recipe that serves 12. 245 calories per serving. Recipe by Sarah's Vegan Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 1 hr 55 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 2 hrs 35 min
Cost: $20.43 total, $1.70 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups Bread Flour (All‑purpose bread flour, high protein)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2.25 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (One 0.25‑oz packet)
- 1.5 cups Warm Water (110‑115°F (43‑46°C))
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra‑virgin preferred)
- 1 head Whole Head Roasted Garlic (Roasted until soft, skins removed)
- 0.5 cup Vegan Butter (Softened, unsalted)
- 0.25 cup Fresh Herbs (Chopped parsley, chives, and thyme (mix of your choice))
- 2 tablespoons Vegan Butter for Brushing (Melted)
Instructions
Proof the Yeast
Combine the active dry yeast with warm water (110‑115°F) and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl. Stir gently and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 110°F
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl whisk together bread flour, granulated sugar, salt, dried basil, and garlic powder until evenly distributed.
Time: PT3M
Add Wet Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the dry mixture, pour in the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Time: PT2M
Knead the Dough
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface or with a stand mixer on low speed for about 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticks to your hands.
Time: PT5M
First Rise
Lightly oil the mixing bowl, place the dough inside, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.
Time: PT1H
Prepare Garlic Herb Butter
While the dough rises, mash the roasted garlic cloves into a paste. In a small bowl combine the softened vegan butter, mashed garlic, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Punch Down and Roll Out
Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface, gently punch down to release air, and roll into a large rectangle roughly 12×15 inches.
Time: PT5M
Spread Garlic Herb Butter
Evenly spread the garlic‑herb butter over the surface of the rolled dough, leaving a tiny border around the edges.
Time: PT2M
Cut into Strips
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the buttered dough into 12 equal strips (like a pizza).
Time: PT3M
Stack Strips in Loaf Tin
Grease the 9×5‑inch loaf tin. Lay the strips in the pan, stacking them slightly offset so they sit evenly and will pull apart after baking.
Time: PT5M
Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan loosely with a towel and let the dough rise again until puffy, about 30 minutes.
Time: PT30M
Bake the Bread
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the interior sounds hollow when tapped.
Time: PT25M
Temperature: 375°F
Brush with Butter
Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the top with melted vegan butter for extra shine and flavor.
Time: PT2M
Cool and Serve
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Pull apart the strips and serve warm.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 245
- Protein
- 4.3 g
- Carbohydrates
- 31 g
- Fat
- 9 g
- Fiber
- 1.7 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy‑Free, Nut‑Free, Gluten
Allergens: Wheat, Soy (in some vegan butter brands), Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Bread Flour: All‑purpose flour (add 2 tbsp vital wheat gluten)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar, Maple sugar
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt (use 1.5×)
- Instead of Dried Basil: Dried oregano, Italian seasoning
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Granulated garlic, Minced fresh garlic (use 2 cloves)
- Instead of Active Dry Yeast: Instant yeast (use same amount)
- Instead of Warm Water: Plant‑based milk (for richer crumb)
- Instead of Olive Oil: Canola oil, Avocado oil
- Instead of Whole Head Roasted Garlic: 4‑5 cloves raw garlic (minced)
- Instead of Vegan Butter: Margarine, Coconut oil (solid)
- Instead of Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs (use 1 tsp each)
- Instead of Vegan Butter for Brushing: Olive oil spray
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional) (optional)
- Dough Scraper
- Rolling Pin
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter
- 9x5‑inch Loaf Tin
- Pastry Brush
- Oven
- Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Proof the yeast until foamy
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic
- First rise until dough doubles in size
- Roll out the dough to a uniform rectangle
- Stack the strips evenly in the loaf tin
- Second rise until puffy
- Bake until golden brown
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra flavor, roast the garlic head with a drizzle of olive oil at 400°F for 30‑35 minutes before using.
- Use a mix of parsley, chives, and thyme for a bright, balanced herb profile.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the lower rack while baking.
Troubleshooting
Dough does not rise
Check that the water temperature was warm (not hot) and that the yeast is fresh. If needed, add a pinch more sugar to feed the yeast and place the dough in a warmer spot.
Bread is dense or gummy
Knead a little longer to develop gluten and ensure the dough was given enough time to rise. Avoid over‑adding water.
Butter spread leaks out during baking
Make sure the butter is evenly spread but not excessive. Chill the dough for 10 minutes after stacking before the second rise.
Crust is too pale
Brush the loaf with melted butter before baking and increase oven temperature by 10‑15°F, or bake a few minutes longer.
Storage
Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months; reheat in oven before serving.
Room temperature: Best eaten the same day; can sit uncovered for up to 4 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the dough a day ahead, let it rise, then refrigerate after the first rise. Shape and give the second rise before baking.
- The garlic‑herb butter can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread in Italian‑American cuisine?
Garlic herb pull‑apart bread evolved from traditional Italian focaccia and garlic‑butter breads served in family gatherings. In the United States, it became popular as a shareable side for pizza night and holiday meals, embodying the communal spirit of Italian‑American dining.
What are the traditional regional variations of garlic herb pull‑apart bread in Italian cuisine?
In northern Italy, the bread often features rosemary and olive oil, while southern versions add sun‑dried tomatoes or chili flakes. Some regions use fresh mozzarella inside the layers for a cheesy twist, but the classic herb‑only version remains the most widespread.
How is Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread traditionally served in Italian‑American households?
It is typically served warm, straight from the oven, brushed with extra butter and placed on a serving board. Guests pull the strips apart and dip them into marinara sauce, garlic‑herb butter, or a vegan ranch dressing.
What occasions or celebrations is Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread traditionally associated with in Italian‑American culture?
The bread is a staple at family gatherings, holiday feasts such as Christmas and Easter, and casual get‑togethers like pizza parties or game nights, where its shareable nature fits the festive atmosphere.
What makes Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread special or unique in Italian‑American cuisine?
Its soft, fluffy interior combined with a fragrant roasted‑garlic butter creates a contrast to the crisp crust. The pull‑apart format encourages communal eating, making it both a comfort food and a centerpiece for sharing.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread at home?
Common errors include using water that is too hot, which kills the yeast; under‑kneading, leading to a dense crumb; and over‑spreading the butter, which can cause soggy layers. Follow the proofing temperature and knead until the window‑pane test passes.
Why does this Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread recipe use a whole head of roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic?
Roasting mellows the sharp bite of raw garlic, turning it sweet and buttery, which infuses the butter spread with a deep, caramelized flavor that complements the soft bread without overwhelming it.
Can I make Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. You can prepare the dough a day ahead, refrigerate after the first rise, shape and give the second rise before baking. Store the baked loaf wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for two months.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread?
The loaf should have a golden‑brown crust, a soft, airy crumb, and visible layers of butter‑infused dough when pulled apart. The interior should be moist but not gummy, and the edges slightly crisp.
How do I know when Garlic Herb Pull‑Apart Bread is done cooking?
The top will be deep golden brown, and tapping the bottom of the loaf will produce a hollow sound. An internal temperature of 190‑200°F (88‑93°C) also indicates it is fully baked.
What does the YouTube channel Sarah's Vegan Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Sarah's Vegan Kitchen specializes in plant‑based versions of classic comfort foods, offering accessible vegan recipes, ingredient swaps, and step‑by‑step tutorials for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Sarah's Vegan Kitchen's approach to vegan Italian cooking differ from other vegan cooking channels?
Sarah's Vegan Kitchen focuses on recreating authentic Italian flavors using vegan ingredients, emphasizing simple techniques, minimal specialty products, and clear visual instructions, whereas many other channels prioritize raw or highly processed vegan shortcuts.
Last updated: August 21, 2026






