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Patrick Simon October 26, 2025

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Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is the perfect centerpiece for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in. The enticing aroma of warm garlic envelops your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This bread boasts a soft, chewy texture on the inside with a beautifully golden crust, making each pull apart a delicious delight. Served fresh from the oven, it pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or just as a standalone treat, spreading warmth and joy to all who indulge.

Why This Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread Works

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread! This recipe not only makes use of your sourdough discard, reducing waste and making your kitchen more sustainable, but it also creates an irresistible bread that everyone will adore. Here are a few things that make this dish special:

  • Rich Flavor: The addition of garlic infuses each piece with a robust taste.
  • Savory and Soft: The bread’s tender texture makes it suitable for any occasion.
  • Versatile Pairings: Perfect alongside salads, soups, or as a snack.
  • Easy to Share: Each pull apart piece is ready to be enjoyed by family and friends.

Gather These Ingredients

To create your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, you’ll need some simple ingredients that blend together to create a fantastic flavor profile. The sourdough discard provides depth, while garlic and fresh parsley bring a delightful twist. Feel free to adjust quantities based on personal preferences or dietary needs:

  • 2 cups sourdough discard
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Butter for brushing

This combination results in a deliciously fragrant and soft pull apart bread, ready to win over any crowd.

Step by Step

Creating your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a straightforward process, with each step leading to a beautifully baked bread. Follow these easy instructions for delightful results:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, warm water, olive oil, minced garlic, and sugar. The rich smells will begin to fill your kitchen.
  2. Mix in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes, until foamy. This is when the yeast wakes up and prepares to work its magic.
  3. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. You will feel the dough start to come together.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft and supple in your hands.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Walking away for this part is worth it as your dough grows.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). The anticipation builds as the oven warms up.
  7. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces. This step helps redistribute the yeast for a perfect rise.
  8. Shape each piece into a small ball and layer them in a greased bundt pan. The arrangement will create those wonderful pull-apart sections.
  9. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley if desired. The golden sheen will tantalize your senses.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible scent of baking bread.
  11. Let it cool for a few minutes before pulling apart and serving. Each piece is warm, comforting, and ready to be enjoyed.

Prep ~ 20 mins, Cook ~ 30 mins, Total ~ 50 mins, Servings ~ 10, Kcal ~ 150 (est.).

Prepare in Advance

If you want to make your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread on a busy day, several make-ahead options can streamline your process. You can prepare the dough up to the point of rising, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out, let it come to room temperature, and continue with the shaping and baking steps as usual. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into balls and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed container and pop out as needed; simply allow them to rise before baking. This way, delicious homemade bread can be only a few hours away!

How to Store Leftovers

To enjoy your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread for days to come, storing it properly is essential. You can keep leftover bread at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. For longer storage, freezing is a great option; just slice or keep it whole, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, gently reheat your slices in a toaster or an oven set to low heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through and ready to savor. The bread should feel soft and aromatic when reheated.

What Goes Well with Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

The versatility of Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread makes it a delightful addition to many dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:

  • A fresh garden salad drizzled with tangy vinaigrette
  • Creamy tomato soup for a perfectly comforting combination
  • A rich, hearty beef stew to soak up every flavorful bite
  • Roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious plate
  • A cheesy dip or spread for a fantastic appetizer
  • A simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairing for dipping

Make It Your Own

There are plenty of ways to put your unique spin on Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread. Here are a few fun variations and customizations:

  • Herbed Delight: Mix in different fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
  • Cheesy Addition: Incorporate shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the dough for a gooey, savory surprise.
  • Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture for a bit of heat.
  • Seasoned Butter: Infuse melted butter with additional garlic or herb flavor before brushing it over the dough.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
  • Savory Cheese: Fold in crumbled turkey bacon and cheese for a decadent version, swapping in turkey bacon for a leaner twist.
  • Sweet Option: Transform the recipe by replacing garlic with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet pull apart bread.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread comes out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Ensure that your yeast is fresh for the best rise; check the expiration date regularly.
  • Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour, for consistent results.
  • Allow enough time for the dough to rise; a warmer environment will yield better results.
  • Bake until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped; this indicates it’s fully cooked.
  • If using frozen dough, allow for ample rise time at room temperature.

Your Questions, Answered

  • Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
  • Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but start with a 1:1 ratio and adjust based on how the dough feels.
  • What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
  • The best way to reheat is in a toaster or oven set to low heat, which helps retain the bread’s original texture.
  • Can I prepare this dough the night before?
  • Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
  • What if my dough does not rise?
  • If your dough does not rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Check your yeast’s freshness and ensure the warm water isn’t too hot or cold when activating it.
  • How can I make this gluten-free?
  • You can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but the texture may vary.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a comforting, flavorful treat that brings people together, whether it’s for a family meal, a gathering with friends, or simply to satisfy your own cravings. With its delightful garlic aroma and tender pull-apart texture, this bread is a must-try for any home baker. Embrace the process of making this charming bread soon, and enjoy the warm, satisfying moments it brings to your table!

Print
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Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread


  • Author: patrick
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a warm, comforting treat with a soft texture and irresistible garlic flavor, perfect for sharing at gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups sourdough discard
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Butter for brushing

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, warm water, olive oil, minced garlic, and sugar.
  2. Mix in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
  3. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces.
  8. Shape each piece into a small ball and layer them in a greased bundt pan.
  9. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  11. Let it cool for a few minutes before pulling apart and serving.

Notes

Dough can be prepared up to the point of rising and refrigerated overnight for convenience. Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: sourdough, garlic, pull apart bread, easy bread recipe, comfort food