Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

A delicious recipe for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a fun and tasty way to enjoy garlic bread. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting snack. The unique blend of flavors from the sourdough discard and garlic makes it a standout choice for any occasion, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of making pull-apart bread, allowing you to create something special without advanced baking skills.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, herbs, and buttery goodness ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a fun addition to your breakfast spread.
• Waste Not, Want Not: Utilizing sourdough discard helps reduce waste while adding deliciousness to your meal.
• Fun to Share: Its pull-apart nature makes it a perfect sharing dish at gatherings, encouraging everyone to dig in together.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Below are the essential items you will need to prepare this delightful bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Kitchen scale (optional but recommended)
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: Helps knead the dough efficiently without much effort on your part.
• Kitchen scale: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time you bake.
• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for your pull-apart bread, ensuring even baking.

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: Combine Ingredients

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 and knead until a smooth dough forms, about 3–4 minutes. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky:
If needed, add more flour or milk (1 Tablespoon / 10 grams at a time) until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Let It Rise

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

Step 4: Prepare Topping

While the dough rises, make the topping. In a small bowl:
1. Combine softened butter, chopped herbs, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
2. Mix until combined.
3. Set aside 1 Tablespoon of this mixture for brushing later on.

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

After rising:
1. Turn the dough onto a smooth work surface and divide into 12 equal-sized pieces.
2. Flatten each piece into a rough circle about 4 inches in diameter.
3. Spread with 1–2 teaspoons of the butter mixture.
4. Fold each piece in half like a taco.
5. Transfer to the prepared baking pan with the fold-side down.
6. Repeat with remaining pieces using all but 1 Tablespoon of butter mixture reserved for brushing later.

Step 6: Second Rise

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

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to:
350℉.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for:
30 minutes uncovered,
Cover with aluminum foil,
Bake an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown.

While still warm:
1. Brush with remaining butter mixture.
2. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
3. Allow cooling in pan for about 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not just a dish; it’s an experience. This flavorful, buttery bread can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your meal. Here are some serving suggestions that will make this bread the star of your table.

As an Appetizer

• Pair with dips: Serve slices with hummus or spinach artichoke dip for a delightful starter.
• Cheese platter: Add to a cheese board for a complementary savory option.

With Soup

• Tomato soup: The garlic flavors complement the acidity of tomato soup beautifully.
• Creamy potato leek soup: The buttery texture of the bread pairs perfectly with creamy soups.

As a Side Dish

• Grilled meats: This pull apart bread makes an excellent side for grilled chicken or steak.
• Roasted vegetables: Enjoy with roasted seasonal veggies to balance flavors.

For Breakfast

• Eggs and bacon: Slice and toast pieces to serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.
• Avocado toast: Use the pull-apart sections as a base for avocado and poached eggs.

At a Picnic

• Sandwiches: Stuff slices with your favorite deli meats and cheeses for portable sandwiches.
• Snacks: Simple pieces with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for dipping are great on-the-go bites.

Save it!

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your sourdough discard, milk, and egg are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Knead adequately: Knead the dough until it is smooth and slightly tacky to help develop gluten structure.
• Monitor rising time: Keep an eye on the dough during the first rise; it should double in size but not overproof.
• Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve even cooking and browning.
• Cover while baking: Use aluminum foil if the top browns too quickly; this ensures even baking without burning.
• Cool before slicing: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing to maintain its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is versatile enough to pair well with various dishes. Here are some fantastic options that create a balanced meal when served together.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the rich, buttery bread.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled vegetables add depth of flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall profile.
3. Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing complements the garlic notes in the bread, creating harmony on your plate.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide a delightful bite-sized pairing that matches well.
5. Roasted Chicken – The juicy flavors of roasted chicken make it an ideal main dish alongside this garlic pull apart bread.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, balancing out the richness of the bread.
7. Baked Ziti – This cheesy pasta dish pairs perfectly as comfort food alongside flavorful garlic bread.
8. Bruschetta – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on toasted pieces elevate your appetizer game when paired together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too long can make the bread tough. Aim for just 3-4 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can slow down yeast activation. Always warm your milk to 110℉ before mixing.
• Skipping the rise time: Rushing the rising process can lead to dense bread. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for optimal texture.
• Inconsistent piece sizes: Unevenly sized dough pieces result in uneven baking. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Not covering the dough while rising: Leaving the dough uncovered may cause it to dry out. Always cover it with plastic wrap or a towel during rising.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the bread is completely cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification when stored in the freezer.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate; heat slices for about 15-20 seconds each.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, we’ve got answers!

How do I make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread without eggs?

To make this recipe egg-free, substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce as a binding agent.

Can I use sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, you can use an unfed sourdough starter instead of discard. It will enhance the flavor of your bread.

What can I serve with Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?

This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as a standalone appetizer with dips like hummus or marinara sauce.

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

The total time from preparation to baking is approximately 200 minutes, including rise times.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it by adding cheese or different herbs according to your taste!