Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
A delicious recipe for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not only a fun way to enjoy garlic bread, but it also offers a unique twist by using sourdough discard. This soft and flavorful bread is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in. Its delightful garlic flavor and pull-apart texture make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Delicious Garlic Flavor – The combination of garlic powder and fresh herbs infuses every bite with amazing taste.
- Perfect for Sharing – The pull-apart nature makes it fun to share with family and friends at gatherings.
- Uses Sourdough Discard – A fantastic way to reduce waste while enjoying the benefits of sourdough.
- Versatile Serving Options – Great as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a snack!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer with dough hook
- Mixing bowl
- Kitchen scale (optional)
- Baking pan (9×5-inch)
- Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer with dough hook – Makes mixing and kneading effortless, producing consistent dough.
- Kitchen scale – Ensures accurate measurements for evenly sized pieces, leading to uniform baking results.
Ingredients
To make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- ¼ cup non-dairy or regular dairy milk (warmed to 110℉)
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 200 grams (about ¾ cup) sourdough discard (unfed, at room temperature)
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 7 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped)
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- flaky sea salt (for topping)
How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Combine the warmed milk, instant yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add the flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, chopped herbs, salt, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Mix Dough
With the mixer on low speed, slowly add 2 Tablespoons of melted butter. Increase speed to medium and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a smooth work surface. Knead until smooth for about 3–4 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more flour or milk in small increments.
Step 4: Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise for about 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.
Step 5: Make Topping
While the dough rises, prepare the topping by combining softened butter, chopped herbs, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Reserve one tablespoon of this mixture for brushing later. Grease your loaf pan.
Step 6: Shape Dough Pieces
After rising, turn out the dough onto a work surface and divide into twelve equal pieces using a kitchen scale if desired. Flatten each piece into a rough circle about four inches in diameter. Spread with one to two teaspoons of the butter mixture.
Step 7: Assemble Loaf
Fold each piece in half like a taco and place them fold-side down into the prepared loaf pan. Continue until all pieces are arranged nicely.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffed but not rising above the pan edges.
Step 9: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350℉ while waiting for the second rise.
Step 10: Bake Bread
Bake for thirty minutes. Cover with aluminum foil and bake an additional five to ten minutes until golden brown. Use a thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of about 200℉.
Step 11: Finish & Serve
Once done baking, brush with remaining butter mixture and sprinkle with flaky sea salt while warm. Let cool in the pan for ten minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread!
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a main meal, its delicious garlic flavor and soft texture make it a favorite for many.
As an Appetizer
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a cheese platter for a delightful starter.
With Soups and Stews
- Enjoy alongside a hearty vegetable soup to soak up the flavors.
- Serve with chili for a comforting meal.
At Barbecues and Picnics
- Bring slices to outdoor gatherings for an easy-to-share option.
- Use as a base for mini sandwiches filled with grilled meat or veggies.
For Breakfast or Brunch
- Toast slices and top with avocado and poached eggs.
- Serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
To achieve the best results with your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, follow these helpful tips.
- Use warm ingredients: Ensure your milk is warmed to about 110℉ to activate the yeast effectively.
- Knead well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth; this helps develop gluten for a better texture.
- Don’t rush the rise: Allow the dough enough time to double in size, which contributes to its fluffiness.
- Keep it covered: Protect the dough from drafts while it rises to prevent it from drying out.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
- Add toppings generously: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter topping; it adds incredible flavor!
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options that complement its rich flavors.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing, perfect for balancing richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes enhance the savory notes of the bread.
- Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness to your meal.
- Tomato Basil Soup: Pairing this bread with a warm tomato soup creates a comforting combo.
- Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with rice, beans, and spices for a hearty side dish that complements the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your success. Here are some to watch out for:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use a kitchen scale for precision. This ensures the right texture and taste in your bread.
- Ignoring dough consistency – If your dough is too sticky or dry, it won’t rise well. Adjust with small amounts of flour or milk until you reach a slightly tacky texture.
- Skipping the rise time – Rushing this step can lead to dense bread. Allow the dough to double in size for a lighter texture.
- Using cold ingredients – Ensure your milk and sourdough discard are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can slow down yeast activity, affecting the rise.
- Overbaking or underbaking – Keep an eye on baking times and use a thermometer. The internal temperature should reach about 200℉ for perfect doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
- Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
- Oven – Preheat to 350℉ and warm for about 10-15 minutes wrapped in foil.
- Microwave – Heat slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread.
Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use regular yeast, but make sure to activate it first by mixing it with warm water and sugar before adding it to the dough.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown, and when checked with a kitchen thermometer, it should read around 200℉ internally.
Can I customize the flavors in this Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs like thyme or oregano, or even cheese for extra flavor.
What should I serve with Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?
This pull-apart bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or as an appetizer with dips.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Try making it today and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a deliciously unique twist on traditional garlic bread, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. This soft and fluffy bread is infused with rich garlic flavors and fresh herbs, creating an irresistible pull-apart texture that invites sharing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe not only helps reduce kitchen waste by using sourdough discard but also elevates your baking game. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 200 grams sourdough discard
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 7 tablespoons softened butter
- Garlic powder and fresh herbs for flavoring
Instructions
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Add flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, herbs, salt, garlic powder, and melted butter.
- Mix on low speed; then increase to medium until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 3-4 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise in a greased bowl for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
- Prepare the topping by mixing softened butter with garlic powder and herbs.
- Divide the dough into twelve pieces; flatten each piece and spread with topping mixture before folding in half.
- Place folded pieces into a greased loaf pan; cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 30 minutes; cover with foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg