Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath

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This Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath is the kind of appetizer that makes people stop mid-conversation just to ask, “Did you make this yourself?” I love how it brings everyone together—whether I’m hosting a holiday dinner or having friends over for wine night. It’s beautiful on the table, smells absolutely incredible, and tastes even better than it looks. That golden crust brushed with garlic butter and fresh herbs is simply irresistible.

What I really enjoy about this recipe is how deceptively easy it is. Using store-bought dough or biscuit dough makes it accessible even for novice bakers, but the final result looks like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. It’s garlicky, buttery, fluffy on the inside, and crisp on the outside—all the things we want in a bread appetizer. Plus, that marinara center? Pure magic.

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Why You’ll Love This Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath

• It’s stunning on a serving platter and perfect for festive gatherings.
• You get all the flavor of garlic bread, but in soft, poppable bites.
• It’s easy enough to make with pantry staples or shortcut ingredients.
• Perfect for dipping in marinara, alfredo, or even herbed olive oil.
• Make-ahead friendly: assemble it earlier and bake right before serving.

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What Kind of Dough Should I Use?

You’ve got options here. My go-to is refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough from the store—it saves time and still gives you that pillowy interior. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade yeast dough will elevate the flavor even more. Crescent roll dough can also work, but the structure will be a bit softer.

Avoid sweet doughs like those meant for cinnamon rolls—they’re too sugary for the garlic and herb flavor profile. And make sure whatever dough you use is pliable and easy to divide into small portions for shaping the wreath.

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Options for Substitutions

• Herbs: If rosemary isn’t your thing, try thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
• Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan between the dough balls for a cheesy surprise.
• Butter Substitute: Use olive oil for a dairy-free version with a Mediterranean flair.
• Garlic: No fresh garlic? Garlic powder will do in a pinch—just use less.
• Dipping Sauce: Swap marinara for ranch, pesto, or spicy vodka sauce for something new.

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Ingredients for this Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath

• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough or Pizza Dough – The foundation of the wreath, providing that soft, fluffy center and golden outer crust. Go for plain, unflavored varieties.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted and used to brush the dough; it adds richness and helps the herbs and garlic stick.
• Fresh Garlic – Minced finely and sautéed or stirred raw into butter to give bold, savory depth.
• Fresh Rosemary – Infuses the bread with a woodsy, fragrant flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds brightness and a pop of green for color and fresh flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated and sprinkled over the dough for a nutty, salty edge and crisp topping.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances flavor and adds a gentle seasoning throughout.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a little kick of heat.
• Marinara Sauce – Served warm in the center for dipping, bringing everything together.

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Step 1: Prep the Dough Balls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a round baking dish, springform pan, or place parchment paper on a baking sheet. Divide the biscuit or pizza dough into small, even-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll them smooth and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, and parsley. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let sit for a minute to infuse.

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Step 3: Coat the Dough Balls

Gently roll each dough ball in the garlic herb butter until fully coated. As you coat them, arrange the balls in a circular wreath shape on your prepared pan, leaving a space in the center for a ramekin or small bowl (for marinara sauce later).

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Step 4: Bake the Wreath

Once all the dough balls are arranged and coated, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, puffed, and cooked through.

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Step 5: Final Touch & Serve

After removing from the oven, brush with any remaining garlic butter. Let it cool for 5 minutes. Place a bowl of warmed marinara sauce in the center and garnish with extra herbs or rosemary sprigs tucked around the wreath for presentation.

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How Long to Prepare the Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath

Prep Time: If you’re using pre-made dough, prep is a breeze—about 15 to 20 minutes. This includes rolling the dough balls, preparing the garlic herb butter, and arranging the wreath shape on your baking tray.

Bake Time: It typically takes 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. You’ll know it’s ready when the tops are a rich golden brown and the aroma is irresistibly garlicky.

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Tips for Perfect Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath

• Make sure the dough balls are uniform in size so they bake evenly.
• Let the garlic butter sit for a few minutes before coating the dough to allow flavors to meld.
• Arrange the balls close enough to touch, but not tightly packed—they’ll expand.
• Use a high-quality Parmesan for a better melt and flavor.
• Don’t skip the final butter brushing—it adds shine, flavor, and moisture.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: If you leave it in too long, the bottoms may burn before the tops finish browning. Keep an eye after the 20-minute mark.
• Under-seasoning: Dough on its own is bland. Don’t be shy with the herbs, salt, or garlic.
• Uneven Dough Balls: They’ll cook at different rates and affect the look and texture.
• Skipping the Marinara: The dipping sauce isn’t just extra—it’s essential.
• Crowding the Pan: Too much dough crammed in will result in soggy, undercooked centers.

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What to Serve With Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath?

1. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

The perfect partner for dunking buttery, garlicky bread.

2. Classic Spaghetti or Pasta Dishes

Serve this as a fun and flavorful side.

3. Charcuterie Board

Add a savory bread element to your spread.

4. Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy contrast to the warm, garlicky bread.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Balance the richness with a colorful veggie medley.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If you’re serving it within a few hours, just cover with foil or plastic wrap. It stays soft for 4–6 hours.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F to maintain texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the baked wreath. Wrap it tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen at 325°F for 15–20 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 10 servings total):

• Calories: 230
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 390mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade dough?

Yes, definitely! Just make sure it’s soft and pliable. Homemade pizza dough or even brioche dough works beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep and arrange the dough balls, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Brush with butter just before baking.

How do I keep it warm for a party?

Wrap loosely with foil and keep it in a warm (not hot) oven around 200°F until ready to serve.

What other herbs can I use besides rosemary?

Thyme, oregano, basil, or even an Italian herb blend are great alternatives.

Can I add cheese inside the dough balls?

Yes! Add a cube of mozzarella or provolone inside each dough ball for a gooey center.

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Conclusion

This Pull Apart Garlic Bread Wreath isn’t just bread—it’s a statement piece for your table. It’s warm, fluffy, loaded with flavor, and so much fun to eat. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, game day, or casual get-together, it’s bound to impress. Dip, pull, and enjoy—it doesn’t get better than that!

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