Save to Pinterest A stunning, pull-apart bread shaped like a festive wreath, bursting with fresh herbs, melty cheese, and briny olives—perfect as a centerpiece for gatherings or as an appetizer.
This recipe is a family favorite that brings everyone to the table with its savory flavors and festive presentation.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all purpose flour 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp 7 g) active dry yeast 1 cup (240 ml) warm water 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp salt
- Filling: 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese 2/3 cup (100 g) pitted green olives, chopped 1/3 cup (50 g) pitted black olives, chopped 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Topping: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, rosemary, or thyme) 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix to form a dough, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 3:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 4:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 5:
- Punch down the dough and roll out on a floured surface to a 10x18 inch (25x45 cm) rectangle.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped olives, herbs, garlic, and black pepper.
- Step 7:
- Starting from the long side, roll up the dough tightly into a log.
- Step 8:
- With a sharp knife, slice the log in half lengthwise, exposing the filling, and carefully twist the two strands together, keeping the cut sides facing up.
- Step 9:
- Shape the twisted dough into a circle, pinching the ends to seal and forming a wreath shape on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 10:
- Brush with beaten egg, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with extra herbs and Parmesan.
- Step 11:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 12:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save to Pinterest This recipe often brings joy and warmth to family gatherings, making special occasions even more memorable.
Notes
For extra flavor, add sun dried tomatoes or swap herbs based on preference. Serve with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Pair with a crisp white wine or light bodied red. To make ahead, prepare through step 9, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Measuring cups and spoons Rolling pin Sharp knife Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Nutritional Information
Calories: 305 Total Fat: 11 g Carbohydrates: 39 g Protein: 11 g
Save to Pinterest This fragrant wreath brings a final touch of elegance and flavor to any table setting.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the dough rise faster?
Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising. A slightly warmed oven or a covered bowl near a heat source works well.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, try other melting cheeses like provolone or fontina for variation, while maintaining the flavorful profile.
- → What herbs work best in this wreath?
Fresh parsley, rosemary, and basil complement the olives and cheeses, providing brightness and aromatic notes.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Yes, prepare through shaping and cover the wreath in the fridge overnight. Bake fresh the following day for best results.
- → How should I serve this bread?
Serve warm or at room temperature, alongside olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping to enhance flavors.