Save 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.
I love making this wreath for holidays because it brings everyone together and always impresses guests with its look and taste.
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 2530 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 12:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My family enjoys this wreath as a holiday tradition, gathering around the table to pull apart the bread and share stories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping and pair with a crisp white or light-bodied red wine.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare through step 9, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day for convenience.
Variations
Add sun-dried tomatoes or swap fresh herbs based on preference to customize flavors.
Save This wreath is the perfect festive bread that’s both beautiful and delicious, sure to impress any guest.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure the bread dough rises properly?
Use warm water and active dry yeast, allowing the dough to rest in a warm environment until doubled in size, about 1 hour for optimal rise.
- → Can I substitute different herbs in the filling?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or marjoram can be used to customize the flavor profile while maintaining a fresh, aromatic quality.
- → What is the best way to shape the wreath evenly?
After rolling the dough with filling, slicing lengthwise and twisting the strands before forming a circle ensures a uniform, attractive wreath shape.
- → How can I make the crust extra golden and shiny?
Brushing the wreath with beaten egg before baking creates a rich, glossy crust with appealing color.
- → Can this bread be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, after shaping the wreath, cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.