Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. This recipe is an ingenious way to make use of sourdough discard, transforming ordinary ingredients into an aromatic, pull-apart bread that’s buttery, garlicky, and irresistibly fluffy. The multiple layers of dough, combined with the aromatic garlic and herbs, create a sensory experience that will warm your heart and home. It’s an easy recipe that comes together in simple, step-by-step directions, ensuring everyone from novice bakers to seasoned chefs can enjoy the process.
Ingredients
The ingredients for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread are not just essential; they also bring delightful flavors and textures to the dish:
- ¼ cup non-dairy or regular dairy milk – warmed to 110℉, this creamy liquid awakens the yeast.
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast – this handy ingredient helps the dough rise, ensuring your bread is light and airy.
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar – just a touch of sweetness to feed the yeast.
- 2 cups + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour – the backbone of the bread, creating that lovely soft texture.
- 200 grams (about ¾ cup) sourdough discard – at room temperature, this adds depth of flavor and reduces waste.
- 1 egg (lightly beaten) – for richness and a beautiful golden color.
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped) – aromatic herbs that elevate the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – for a pleasant contrast to the dough’s sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – a fragrant addition to enhance the garlic flavor.
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) – adds moisture and a rich taste; a key player in this recipe.
- 7 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened) – combined with herbs and garlic for the luxurious filling.
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped) – more freshness to enhance the topping.
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder – adds more depth and warmth to the filling.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – balances the flavors perfectly.
- Flaky sea salt (for topping) – a finishing touch that enhances all the wonderful flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions
To create Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, follow these easy yet detailed directions:
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Combine the Mixture: Begin by combining the warmed milk, instant yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. This will activate the yeast to help your dough rise.
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Add the Remaining Ingredients: Next, add the flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, chopped herbs, salt, and garlic powder to the mixer. Turn on low speed and gradually add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Increase the speed to medium and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a smooth work surface and knead until it becomes a smooth, slightly tacky dough, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Adjust the texture by adding flour or milk, one tablespoon at a time, if necessary.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 60-90 minutes or until it doubles in size.
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Prepare the Topping: While the dough rises, make the garlic butter topping. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the chopped herbs, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set aside one tablespoon of this mixture for later.
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Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a clean surface and divide it into 12 equal-sized pieces—using a kitchen scale can ensure even portions. Flatten each piece into a circle about 4 inches in diameter and spread with 1-2 teaspoons of the garlic butter mixture.
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Forming the Loaf: Fold each piece in half like a taco and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan with the fold side down. Repeat until all pieces are in the pan and reserve the extra garlic butter for brushing later.
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Second Rise: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed, but not above the edges of the pan.
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Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Bake the loaf for about 30 minutes, then cover it with aluminum foil and continue to bake for another 5-10 minutes. The loaf should be golden brown, and an internal thermometer should read about 200℉.
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Finishing Touches: Once baked, brush the remaining garlic butter topping over the warm loaf and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
To make your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread even better, consider these extra tips:
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor; if you can, opt for fresh parsley or rosemary.
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Monitor Dough Temperature: Make sure your dough doesn’t get too hot; a comfortable room temperature is ideal for rising.
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Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on your dough during the rise; over-proofing can lead to a dense bread.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix up the herbs or even add cheese between the layers for a more savory twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This pull-apart bread is perfect for various occasions:
- Family Gatherings: Serve it warm with meals for a comforting touch everyone will love.
- Picnics or Barbecues: Easy to pack and share, this bread is a great addition to casual gatherings.
- Great with Soups or Salads: Pair it with a robust soup or fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
A single serving (about 1/12 of the loaf) of Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
This bread provides a satisfying balance of carbs and fats, making it a wonderful treat when enjoyed in moderation.
Storing Tips & Variations
To ensure your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread stays fresh:
- Storing: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in a toaster or oven to regain that freshly baked texture.
- Variations: Experiment with different herbs, spices, or cheese to customize the flavor to your liking!
Conclusion
Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its easy steps and lovely flavors, encourage readers to give it a try and share their baking adventures. Whether enjoyed solo or with loved ones, this bread is sure to capture the hearts and appetites of many!
FAQs
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Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but you will need to proof it in the warm milk first before adding it to the dough. -
What can I use if I don’t have sourdough discard?
You can replace it with more flour and liquid, but you’ll miss the unique flavor sourdough contributes. Alternatively, some recipes allow yogurt as a substitute for moisture and tang. -
How can I boost the garlic flavor?
Adding roasted garlic between the layers can enhance the flavor beautifully! -
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to the first rise and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping. -
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
You can make it vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg and using plant-based butter and milk.

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients
Method
- 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 to the mixer.
- Turn on low speed and gradually add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Increase to medium and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer to a smooth work surface and knead until slightly tacky, about 3-4 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
- Make the garlic butter topping by mixing softened butter, chopped herbs, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt in a small bowl.
- Set aside one tablespoon of the mixture for later.
- After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a clean surface and divide into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a circle about 4 inches in diameter and spread with 1-2 teaspoons of the garlic butter mixture.
- Fold each piece in half and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan with the fold side down.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed but not above edges.
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, then cover with aluminum foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
- Once baked, brush with remaining garlic butter topping and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving.






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