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How to Make Pull Apart Bread: The Ultimate Garlic Butter Guide

Learn how to make bakery-quality Pull Apart Garlic Bread from scratch with this foolproof guide. Featuring golden, buttery layers infused with garlic, herbs, and parsley, this show-stopping side dish is perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. Soft on the inside and crisp on the edges—every piece bursts with irresistible flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf (8 servings)
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup warm water divided
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast or instant yeast
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tsp salt
For Garlic Butter Topping:
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic finely grated or minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning

Method
 

  1. Activate yeast: Combine ½ cup warm water (110°F), yeast, and honey in a mixing bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Build dough: Add flour, butter, and salt. Gradually mix in remaining ½ cup water until a dough forms.
  3. Knead: Knead on a floured surface for 7–10 minutes (or with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare garlic butter: Melt butter over low heat, add garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning. Cook gently for 2 minutes without browning.
  6. Shape dough: Punch down dough, roll into a 1-inch thick log, and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  7. Coat pieces: Toss dough pieces in garlic butter until evenly coated.
  8. Arrange and bake: Place in greased 8×4-inch loaf pan, bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm for maximum flavor.

Notes

Ensure yeast is fresh and water is around 110°F for best activation. Knead thoroughly for soft, airy bread. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to maintain even rise. For dairy-free versions, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives. Bread is best served fresh but can be reheated in a 325°F oven for 5–10 minutes.