Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a show-stopping appetizer that combines gooey cheese, fragrant garlic, and just the perfect touch of sweetness, then this Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter is exactly what you need. Imagine soft, pillowy dough balls filled with stretchy mozzarella, brushed with a savory garlic butter blend, all baked together in a festive wreath shape that’s both eye-catching and irresistibly delicious. The finishing glaze of honey butter adds a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory flavors, making every bite an absolute delight. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dazzling dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is where the magic begins for this Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly unforgettable.

• 1 lb pizza dough (450 g): Provides the soft, chewy base that holds all the cheesy goodness together, ensuring pull-apart perfection.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (170 g): Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey interior in each dough ball.
• 3 tablespoons melted butter (45 ml): Used to brush the dough, adding richness and a golden, glossy finish during baking.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (9 g): Infuses the bread with vibrant, aromatic flavor that garlic lovers will swoon over.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (3 g): A fragrant blend that brings herby depth and complexity to the garlic butter mixture.
• 2 tablespoons softened butter (30 g): Combined with honey as a finishing glaze for a sweet-savory twist.
• 1 tablespoon honey (15 ml): Adds a luscious sweetness to balance the savory flavors and enhance the overall experience.

How to Make Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the perfect baking environment for your bread wreath. Divide the pizza dough into small, even balls — about the size that fits comfortably in your palm. These will become the pockets that hold molten mozzarella inside each bite.

Step 2: Stuff the Dough Balls with Cheese

Take each dough ball and gently flatten it a bit, then nestle a generous spoonful of shredded mozzarella inside before sealing it back into a smooth ball. This step is key to achieving that glorious cheesy pull-apart effect that everyone will love.

Step 3: Mix and Brush the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning for a fragrant, savory blend. Use a brush to coat each dough ball generously with this mixture. This layer will infuse the dough with rich flavor and help create a golden crust when baked.

Step 4: Arrange the Wreath

On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the stuffed and buttered dough balls in a circular wreath shape. Ensure they’re close but not squished, so they bake into each other just enough to stay connected while still pulling apart easily.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Bake the wreath in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the bread should puff up, turn golden brown, and the cheese inside should bubble to perfection. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Brush with Honey Butter

While the wreath is still warm, mix the softened butter and honey to create a sweet glaze. Brush this heavenly mixture over the wreath to add a beautiful shine and a subtle layer of sweetness that complements the savory garlic and cheesy filling.

How to Serve Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. These simple garnishes add a pop of color and an extra flavor punch, making the wreath even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a bowl of steaming tomato soup. The crispness of the salad or the acidity of the tomato soup cuts through the richness of the bread, creating a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the wreath on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter, and place small bowls of marinara sauce or creamy ranch dressing nearby for dipping. This setup invites everyone to pull apart the bread and dip into their favorite sauces, turning your dish into a fun and interactive centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the assembled dough balls before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To revive leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the wreath on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread chewy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough works perfectly and saves time while still giving you that soft, chewy texture essential to the wreath.

What type of cheese should I use?

Mozzarella is ideal for this recipe because it melts beautifully and stretches perfectly, but you can also mix in provolone or Monterey Jack for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, by swapping mozzarella for a plant-based cheese and using dairy-free butter alternatives, you can adapt it to fit vegan or dairy-free preferences.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Since the garlic is mixed with melted butter before brushing, it has some protection against burning. Make sure to monitor the bread while baking to avoid overcooking.

Is the honey butter essential?

The honey butter is what makes this wreath uniquely delicious by adding a sweet contrast to the savory garlic and cheese. While optional, it’s highly recommended for the best flavor experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a warm, cheesy Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Wreath with Honey Butter with loved ones. It’s comforting, delicious, and turns any meal or gathering into a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises smiles, satisfied appetites, and a few moments of pure, cheesy joy. So go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!