Description
Garlic bread wreath delights guests with its irresistible aroma and show-stopping presentation. Warm, herby, and golden-brown, this crowd-pleasing centerpiece brings festive cheer to any gathering while satisfying comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients:
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Butter Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast activation liquid by combining tepid water, sugar, and yeast in a compact vessel. Allow the mixture to rest and develop a frothy texture, indicating active fermentation.
- In a spacious mixing receptacle, integrate flour and salt. Introduce the activated yeast blend and olive oil, stirring until a cohesive dough emerges.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and manipulate with rhythmic kneading motions. Continue working the dough until it transforms into a smooth, elastic consistency. Professional bakers can utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook for efficient processing.
- Nestle the prepared dough into a lightly greased container, drape with a slightly damp cloth, and position in a warmth-saturated environment. Allow the dough to expand and double in volume over approximately 90 minutes.
- Craft a luxurious garlic butter blend by whisking melted butter with finely minced garlic, chopped parsley, and Italian seasoning until thoroughly incorporated.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper or selecting a circular pan for presentation.
- Deflate the risen dough and segment into 20-25 petite spherical portions. Immerse each dough ball completely in the aromatic garlic butter mixture.
- Artfully arrange the butter-coated dough balls in a circular formation, maintaining modest spacing to accommodate expansion during baking.
- Bake the wreath for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until the surface achieves a rich golden-brown complexion and the interior reaches complete doneness.
- For an enhanced presentation, delicately brush the warm bread with residual garlic butter and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley to elevate visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by marinara sauce or herb-infused butter for an indulgent dipping experience.
Notes
- Create a warm environment for yeast activation by using water between 100-110°F to ensure proper proofing without killing the yeast.
- Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which creates a more elastic and soft texture for the bread wreath.
- Allow sufficient rising time in a draft-free, warm spot to help the dough double in size and create a lighter, airier bread.
- Experiment with different herbs and cheese variations like rosemary, thyme, or sharp cheddar to customize the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg