Caffeine Free Classic Pull Apart Bread

Total time2 hr 40 min

Prep time35 min

Cook time35 min

4.9

(9)

Warm, pillowy, and absolutely impossible to resist, this pull-apart loaf is the kind of bread that disappears from the table before it even has a chance to cool. Each layer is brushed with a garlicky herb butter made with fresh parsley, minced garlic, and a touch of oregano, so every single pull delivers a fragrant, buttery bite. The dough itself is enriched with egg, whole milk, and softened butter worked in gradually, giving it that soft, slightly chewy texture that makes homemade bread so satisfying. Naturally free of coffee, tea, chocolate, or any other stimulants, every ingredient here is straightforward pantry staple territory — no label-reading required. The stacking-and-slicing technique sounds fancier than it is, and the result is a showstopper loaf that looks like it came from a bakery. Optional Parmesan sprinkled between the layers adds a salty, nutty depth that takes the whole thing to another level. Serve it warm straight from the pan and let everyone pull their own piece — it's communal eating at its very best.

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Ingredients

8 servings

For the dough

2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
1 tsp granulated sugar
¾ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°f (43°c)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the garlic herb butter

4 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Stir briefly and let stand for 5–8 minutes, until foamy and fragrant.
2
Add the flour, salt, 2 tbsp sugar, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed with the dough hook until a shaggy dough forms, about 2 minutes. Increase to medium speed and knead for 5 minutes, then add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, waiting until each addition is fully incorporated before adding the next. Continue kneading on medium speed for 4–5 minutes more, until the dough is smooth, slightly tacky, and pulls cleanly away from the sides of the bowl.

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