Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it starts to foam. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture forms a ball of dough.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness.

Step 3: First Rise

Grease a large bowl and place the dough in it. Cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, which should take about an hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While the dough is rising, mix together the shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a medium bowl. This cheese mixture will be the delicious filling for your pull-apart bread.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle.

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the dough. This ensures that every bite of the bread will be filled with cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Create the Pull-Apart Bread

Cut the dough into strips, then cut the strips into squares. Stack the squares on top of each other and arrange them in a greased loaf pan. This stacking method is what gives the bread its pull-apart quality.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Before placing the bread in the oven, brush the top with the melted butter. This will help the bread achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and add extra flavor.

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Let the bread cool slightly before serving. This will make it easier to pull apart and enjoy. Serve the bread warm and watch as your family and friends eagerly dig in, savoring each buttery, cheesy bite.

Conclusion

Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful treat that brings people together. Its ooey-gooey cheese and buttery, soft bread make it an irresistible dish for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, this bread is sure to be a hit at your next celebration. Enjoy the process of making this delicious bread and share the joy with your loved ones as they marvel at your culinary creation.