This Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is soft, fluffy, and bursting with garlicky goodness! It’s a perfect way to use leftover sourdough starter and enjoy warm, homemade bread.
There’s something magical about pulling apart those warm, buttery pieces. I might eat more than one at a time. Who can resist garlic bread? Just serve it with soup or a salad, and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This recipe shines with sourdough discard, giving it a lovely tang. If you’re short on discard, you can substitute with an equal amount of plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar acidity.
All-Purpose Flour: I prefer using all-purpose flour for the best texture. If you want a whole-grain twist, you can replace half of it with whole wheat flour. Just expect a denser bread.
Instant Yeast: Instant yeast is my go-to because it’s quick and reliable. If you only have active dry yeast, you can use that; however, you’ll need to activate it in warm water first.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness of the bread. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter; they perform well in this recipe!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a strong flavor that’s hard to beat. However, garlic powder can be used in a pinch; use about 1 teaspoon in the garlic butter.
How Do I Knead the Dough Perfectly?
Kneading the dough is key for developing gluten, leading to a better rise and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, combine your ingredients until they form a shaggy dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and flatten it slightly.
- Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it over itself.
- Rotate it 90 degrees and repeat the process. Knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
If you’re using a stand mixer, let the dough hook do the work! Mix on medium speed for 6-8 minutes until it’s the right consistency. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the effort!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 cup (250g) sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ¼ cup (60ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk, warm
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for dough)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for garlic butter)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or oregano
- Salt, a pinch for the garlic butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 2 hours for rising and 30-35 minutes for baking. In total, plan for around 2 hours and 50 minutes to make this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Next, add in the sourdough discard, warm water, warm milk, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix everything together until you form a shaggy dough. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy—this is normal!
2. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it with your hands for about 8-10 minutes until it feels soft, smooth, and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 6-8 minutes if that’s easier for you.
3. First Rise:
Lightly oil a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel to keep the warmth in. Let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, which will take about 1 to 1 ½ hours.
4. Prepare Garlic Butter:
While the dough is rising, mix the 6 tablespoons of melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Set this fragrant mixture aside until you’re ready for it.
5. Shape the Dough:
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Now, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle that measures about 12×15 inches (30×38 cm).
6. Cut and Butter:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 4 slices lengthwise and then 4 slices crosswise. This should create about 16 squares of dough.
7. Assemble the Loaf:
Take each square and generously brush it with the garlic butter mixture. Stack these squares on top of one another, brushing more garlic butter onto each layer as you go. This will help create those pull-apart layers!
8. Arrange in Loaf Pan:
Now, arrange the stacked squares vertically in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, filling all the gaps.
9. Second Rise:
Cover the loaf pan with a clean towel and let it rise again until it is puffy and almost doubled in size, which will take about 45 minutes.
10. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pull apart bread for 30-35 minutes until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking.
11. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it and serve warm. Pull apart the soft, garlicky layers and enjoy the irresistible flavor!
This pull apart garlic bread is soft, flavorful, and infused with the unique tang of sourdough discard. It’s perfect for serving as a side dish or enjoying as a snack on its own!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes! You can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may result in a denser loaf.
How Should I Store Leftover Pull Apart Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil before freezing!
Can I Prepare This Dough the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can make the dough, shape it, and then refrigerate it overnight instead of allowing it to rise. The next day, let it come to room temperature, complete the second rise, and bake as directed.
What Can I Serve with Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or salads. It can also be served alongside pasta dishes, or enjoyed on its own with a bit of butter or marinara sauce for dipping!
