Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping treat that combines rustic charm with irresistible flavor, then you absolutely must try this Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread Recipe. It’s a wonderfully inventive way to use that tangy sourdough discard in your fridge, turning it into a fluffy, buttery, and garlicky masterpiece. Every bite is bursting with herbal freshness and a buttery garlic kick, making it perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends at your next gathering. This recipe turns simple pantry staples into a comforting bread experience that’s as fun to pull apart as it is delicious to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe proves that magic happens when quality basics come together. Each item plays its part: the yeast and sugar activate the dough, the sourdough discard adds tang and depth, while garlic and herbs bring that unmistakable aroma and flavor that makes this bread truly special.

• Non-dairy or regular dairy milk (¼ cup, warmed to 110℉): Helps activate the yeast and adds moisture for a soft crumb.
• Instant yeast (1 ½ teaspoons): Provides the essential rise for a light and airy bread texture.
• Granulated sugar (2 teaspoons): Feeds the yeast and balances the garlic’s sharpness with just a touch of sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups + 1 tablespoon): The backbone of your dough, creating structure and chewiness.
• Sourdough discard (200 grams, about ¾ cup): Adds wonderful tang and depth, transforming leftover starter into a star ingredient.
• Egg (1, lightly beaten): Enriches the dough for softness and a beautiful golden color.
• Fresh parsley or rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Infuses the bread with fresh herbal notes that complement the garlic beautifully.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings the essential savory punch for garlic lovers everywhere.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Gives the dough richness and tenderness.
• For the topping: 7 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus flaky sea salt for finishing.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by warming your milk to about 110 degrees Fahrenheit; it should feel cozy but not hot. Stir in the granulated sugar and instant yeast, then let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to bloom. This step ensures your yeast is live and ready to give your dough the perfect rise. Meanwhile, have your sourdough discard, melted butter, and beaten egg prepped — these enrich the dough and add that signature tang and moisture every bite needs.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Form the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, garlic powder, and freshly chopped herbs. When your yeast mixture is bubbly and active, pour it into the flour mixture along with the sourdough discard, egg, and melted butter. Stir gently until the dough starts to come together.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when pressed. This step develops the gluten, ensuring that pull-apart bread that’s soft but structured enough to hold those gorgeous layers.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and patience here is rewarded with an airy, tender crumb.

Step 5: Shape the Pull Apart Loaf

Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle approximately 12 by 16 inches. Brush the surface generously with the softened garlic butter topping, sprinkle with extra herbs, garlic powder, and a little salt. Then, slice the dough into strips or squares and stack or layer them in a greased loaf pan, allowing you to pull the bread apart piece by piece once baked.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover your shaped dough and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. This final rise adds lightness and ensures each segment will be wonderfully soft and fluffy.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. If you love that extra buttery crust, brush the loaf with more melted butter as soon as it’s out of the oven.

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Finish this bread off with a scattering of flaky sea salt on top to add a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. Throwing on some additional fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary right before serving adds a fresh and inviting fragrance, making the bread smell irresistible.

Side Dishes

This garlic pull apart bread is perfect alongside hearty soups, stews, or your favorite pasta dishes. It’s the type of cozy bread that soaks up sauces beautifully and pairs perfectly with a simple green salad for a lighter meal or alongside roasted vegetables for added comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, place the loaf in a rustic bread basket with colorful linen napkins to keep it warm. Alternatively, arrange individual pull-apart pieces on a wooden platter alongside small bowls of herb-infused olive oil or marinara sauce for dipping. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and conversation starter at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pull apart bread keeps well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep its freshness as much as possible, avoid refrigerating as this tends to dry out the bread.

Freezing

To enjoy this delicious treat later, slice or portion the bread and freeze it in airtight freezer bags. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw overnight on the counter before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to revive the soft texture and buttery aroma is by warming slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. A quick toast in a toaster oven also works wonders and helps bring back that pull-apart bread’s lovely crust.

FAQs

Can I use fed sourdough starter instead of discard in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fed sourdough starter; however, since fed starter is more active and less acidic than discard, the flavor and fermentation time might vary slightly. Using discard adds a unique tang that complements the garlic nicely.

Is it okay to use regular butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely. Just be mindful of adjusting the salt in the recipe if you opt for salted butter, to avoid over-seasoning the bread.

Can I make this bread vegan-friendly?

Yes! Use non-dairy milk and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg substitute. Also, swap unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or margarine to keep it fully vegan while maintaining that rich, buttery flavor.

How long should I let the dough rise if my kitchen is colder?

In cooler environments, the first rise may take longer—up to 2 hours or more. Find a warm spot like the oven with just the light on or near a radiator to encourage a good rise without rushing.

Can I add cheese or other flavors to the dough?

Definitely! Adding shredded parmesan or cheddar between the layers before baking turns it into a cheesy garlic pull apart. You could also experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor to your liking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about turning sourdough discard into a golden, pull apart loaf that boasts a perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and buttery goodness. This Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread Recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and a smart way to reduce waste while elevating your bread game. I can’t wait for you to try it—it’s perfect for cozy nights, gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself with minimal fuss and maximum joy.

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