Pin 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 has become a holiday favorite in our home; everyone loves tearing pieces from the wreath while sharing stories around the table.
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.
Pin Gathering around this bread has created cherished family moments and joyful sharing over many seasons.
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 per serving
Pin This wreath bread is truly a showstopper for any table and a delicious way to celebrate special occasions.
Recipe Q&A
- → What is the best way to shape the dough into the wreath?
After rolling the dough with filling, slice it lengthwise to expose the layers, twist the strands gently keeping the cut sides up, and form a circle by pinching the ends together.
- → Can I substitute the herbs used in the filling?
Yes, fresh parsley, rosemary, and basil can be swapped or combined with herbs like thyme or oregano to suit personal preference.
- → How can I store the wreath if preparing ahead?
Prepare through the shaping step, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh the following day for best flavor and texture.
- → What type of cheese works best in the filling?
Mozzarella provides meltiness while Parmesan adds sharpness; combining both creates a balanced savory flavor that complements the olives and herbs.
- → Is this bread suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, it contains no meat products, but be sure to verify that cheeses used are vegetarian-friendly if this is a concern.