This Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is so soft and tasty! With bits of garlic and herbs, it’s a perfect snack or side for any meal. And guess what? You get to use that leftover sourdough starter!
Making this bread is a fun way to clean out your fridge! I love tearing off pieces to enjoy with butter. It’s like a delicious garlic hug for your tummy! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough starter discard: This is the star ingredient! It adds a lovely tang and flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of water as a temporary substitution.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great for this bread. However, whole wheat flour or bread flour can also be used for a different flavor and texture. If you want a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free flour blend, but note that the texture may vary.
Yeast: Active dry yeast helps the bread rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use the same amount directly without proofing it. If you’re out of yeast, consider a sourdough starter that’s at 100% hydration, but rising times will be longer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can use roasted garlic instead. Garlic powder is also an option but use it sparingly (about 1 teaspoon) to avoid overpowering the dish.
Parsley: Fresh parsley looks lovely and adds flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried parsley works just as well. Other herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used for a different twist.
How Do I Properly Knead Dough?
Kneading dough is important for developing gluten, which gives bread its structure. Here’s how to do it:
- Lightly flour your work surface and place your dough on it.
- Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away. Then fold it back towards yourself.
- Give it a quarter turn and repeat the process. This builds strength in the dough.
- Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic. If you poke it, it should spring back.
Using a stand mixer with a dough hook is a great shortcut if you’re strapped for time! Just mix on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes until it reaches the same consistency.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
-
For the Dough:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
-
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
-
Optional:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese for stuffing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bread takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 2 to 3 hours total. This includes around 1-1.5 hours for the initial dough rise, plus 30-45 minutes for the second rise before baking. Then, just 30-35 minutes in the oven, and you’ll be enjoying your homemade garlic pull apart bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the sourdough discard and the melted butter to the foamy yeast mixture. Then, combine everything by mixing until you have a rough dough.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6-8 minutes.
4. First Rise:
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until it’s doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
5. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the dough is rising, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley in a small bowl. This will create a delicious garlic butter for brushing onto the dough!
6. Shape the Dough:
After the first rise, punch the dough down to release the air, and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle, about 12 x 8 inches in size.
7. Cut and Layer:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1.5 – 2-inch wide strips. Brush each strip generously with the garlic butter. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle some on the layers as you stack them.
8. Assemble in the Pan:
Stack the strips on top of one another, then cut the stack into smaller sections if necessary to fit into your greased loaf pan. Arrange these stacked pieces vertically in the pan.
9. Second Rise:
Cover the loaf pan and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until the dough is puffy.
10. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for around 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
11. Finish and Serve:
When the bread is done baking, take it out and brush the top with extra melted butter. You can sprinkle more parsley on top if you’d like! Let it cool slightly before serving. Then, pull apart and enjoy your warm, flavorful garlic bread!
This Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not just a delicious treat, it’s a wonderful way to use your sourdough discard and share a warm, comforting snack with friends and family. Enjoy every cheesy, buttery bite!
Can I Use Active Dry Yeast Instead of Instant Yeast?
Absolutely! If you only have active dry yeast, use it just as the recipe suggests. It might take a little longer to rise, so just ensure it becomes foamy in the first step.
What Can I Substitute for Sourdough Discard?
If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can replace it with 1 cup of all-purpose flour mixed with 1/2 cup of water. This will mimic the consistency and moisture needed for the dough.
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
To store leftover bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, slice it and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Can I Add Other Fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like cooked spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or various cheeses for a unique twist. Just make sure not to overload the dough to keep it manageable!