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Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread with Basil Pesto

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  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 servings) 1x
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Golden, fluffy pull-apart bread layered with gooey mozzarella and fresh basil pesto, brushed with garlic butter for a comforting, savory treat.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 tbsp butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for pesto)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the mixture. Knead into a smooth dough for about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. In a blender, combine basil, parmesan, olive oil, and a pinch of salt to make the pesto. Set aside.
  5. Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  6. Spread pesto evenly across the dough, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, and roll it into a log.
  7. Cut the log into even segments (about 2 inches), and stack them upright in a greased loaf pan, cut side up.
  8. Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush over the top of the bread.
  9. Cover and let rise for 20–30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling with cheese.
  11. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

  • Use store-bought pesto as a shortcut if short on time.
  • Try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.
  • Best served warm for optimal gooeyness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg