Servings
1 loaf (7–8 pull-apart sections)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30–35 minutes
Total Time
About 2 hours 20 minutes (including proofing)
Ingredients
Dough
- 350g bread flour
- 75g sugar (reduce if you prefer less sweetness)
- 1 packet dry yeast (7–8g)
- 175 ml warm milk (dairy or coconut milk)
- 1 large egg
- 30g unsalted butter, softened
- Pinch of salt or 1 tsp white/red miso paste (for umami)
Garlic Butter Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- Minced garlic (to taste)
- Chopped scallions or parsley
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Salt (to taste)
(Optional: chicken bouillon powder or MSG for extra savory flavor)
Optional
- Egg wash (for shiny top)
- Extra salt for sprinkling before baking
Instructions
-
Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, mix warm milk with yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Do not add salt directly to yeast. -
Mix the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt or miso.
Whisk the egg into the milk mixture, then slowly add to dry ingredients.
Knead on low speed for about 10 minutes until smooth (add a splash of milk if dry). -
First Rest
Cover dough and rest in a warm place for 10 minutes. -
Add Butter & Knead Again
Add 30g softened butter. Knead another 10 minutes until elastic and smooth (windowpane test). -
Shape & Rest
Roll dough into a ball. Cover and rest 15 minutes until slightly puffed. -
Fill & Shape
Divide dough into 7–8 pieces. Roll each into an oval, spread with garlic butter, fold in half, and place open-side up in a greased loaf pan. -
Final Proof
Cover and proof in a warm place for 1 hour, until nicely puffed. -
Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Brush with egg wash if using. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
Bake 30–35 minutes, covering loosely with foil after 20 minutes to prevent over-browning. -
Serve
Cool slightly and pull apart while warm.
Additional Notes
- Texture check: Dough should be soft, stretchy, and not sticky.
- Oven runs cool? Bake at 350°F instead of 320°F if needed.
- Storage: Keeps well for 2 days at room temperature or freeze slices for later.
Variations
Herb swap: Try chives, dill, or basil.
Vegan: Use plant milk, vegan butter, and egg replacement.
Extra savory: Add cheese or chili oil to garlic butter.