Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread: The Ultimate Cheesy Appetizer

There’s something magical about walking into a home filled with the aroma of freshly baked Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread. Whether you’re hosting an impromptu gathering with friends or simply craving a comforting treat after a long day, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of melted brie cheese oozing between warm, garlic-infused bread pieces creates an irresistible appetizer that’s guaranteed to disappear within minutes.

What makes this Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread special is the perfect balance between the creamy, mild brie and the aromatic garlic butter that infuses every bite. The herbs add freshness while the bread develops a beautiful golden crust that makes pulling apart each piece a satisfying experience. Best of all, this easy Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for both special occasions and casual weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread

Ingredients for Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread:

• 500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 7g sachet fast-action dried yeast
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• 1 whole garlic bulb
• 50g unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 30g fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked
• 5g fresh thyme sprigs, leaves picked
• 170g brie cheese, rind removed and chopped
• Optional for serving: grapes, chutney, and salad

Ingredient Notes:

• For a time-saving variation, try Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread without yeast by using store-bought bread dough
• Looking for gourmet Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread variations? Substitute brie with camembert or add crumbled blue cheese for extra punch
• Fresh herbs make the best Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread with fresh herbs, but dried herbs can work in a pinch (use 1/3 the amount)

How to Make Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread – Step by Step

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. Make a well in the center and add the yeast.
3. Pour in 300ml of warm water and the olive oil.
4. Mix thoroughly until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.
8. Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves.
9. Wrap in foil and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft.
10. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze the garlic cloves into a bowl.
11. Add the melted butter, chopped parsley, and thyme leaves.
12. Mix well to create a flavorful herb and garlic butter.
13. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
14. Punch down the risen dough and divide into approximately 16 equal pieces.
15. Flatten each piece slightly with your palm.
16. Place a small amount of chopped brie in the center of each piece.
17. Fold the dough over the cheese and seal well.
18. Arrange the stuffed dough balls in a circular pattern on the baking sheet, placing them close together.
19. Brush generously with the garlic and herb butter mixture.
20. Cover the arranged dough balls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
21. Brush once more with any remaining garlic butter.
22. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
23. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread

Making truly outstanding Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread comes down to these professional techniques:

• Temperature matters: Make sure your water is warm, not hot, when activating the yeast (around 110°F or 45°C is ideal)
• Properly seal the cheese: Ensure each ball is tightly sealed to prevent the brie from leaking out during baking
• Even sizing: For consistent baking, make your dough balls similar in size
• Room temperature brie: Let your brie sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before chopping for easier handling
• Rest before serving: Allow your Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking to let the cheese set slightly

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the dough balls with cheese and arrange them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before brushing with butter and baking.

What’s the secret to the best Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread? Roasting the garlic instead of using it raw gives a sweeter, more mellow flavor that perfectly complements the creamy brie.

Best Ways to Serve Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread

The best way to serve Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread is while it’s still warm, when the cheese is perfectly melty and the bread is at its most aromatic. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Pair with a side of sweet grapes for a classic sweet-savory contrast
• Serve alongside a fruit chutney or fig jam for dipping
• Complete the meal with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette
• For an elegant appetizer spread, add cured meats, olives, and additional cheeses
• Impress guests by serving your Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread for parties on a wooden board with fresh herbs as garnish

Nutritional Information for Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Note: This Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when served with vegetables and fruits.

Storage & Leftovers

How long does Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread last in the fridge? Store any leftover Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can you freeze Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread? Yes! Once baked and cooled, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month.

Best reheating method: For the best texture, reheat thawed Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. The microwave will work in a pinch, but the texture won’t be as good.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make pull-apart Brie and garlic bread without a stand mixer?

You can easily make Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread by hand. Mix the dough ingredients in a large bowl with a wooden spoon until combined, then transfer to a floured surface and knead by hand for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.

What are the best cheeses to substitute for brie in pull-apart bread?

If brie isn’t available, try camembert for a similar flavor profile. For gourmet Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread variations, consider mozzarella for extra stretchiness, fontina for excellent melting properties, or a combination of cheeses for complex flavor.

Can I make pull-apart Brie and garlic bread with store-bought dough?

Absolutely! For a quick Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread without yeast hassle, use store-bought bread dough or even refrigerated biscuit dough. Simply flatten each piece, add cheese, seal, and continue with the recipe as directed.

What herbs work best with pull-apart Brie and garlic bread?

While this recipe uses thyme and parsley, other great options for Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread with fresh herbs include rosemary, chives, or basil. You can also experiment with herb combinations to create your own signature version.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about setting a freshly baked Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread in the center of your table and watching everyone’s eyes light up. The interactive nature of pulling apart each cheesy, garlic-infused piece creates not just a delicious eating experience but a shared moment of joy.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade bread for the first time, this Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread recipe is approachable, adaptable, and absolutely delicious. The combination of melted brie, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs creates flavor that far exceeds the sum of its simple parts.

We’d love to hear how your Pull-apart Brie and Garlic Bread turns out! Did you try any creative variations? Share your experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next gathering or cozy night in!

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