Herb and Cheese Olive Wreath

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 bread has become a favorite at our holiday parties bringing everyone together to enjoy its savory flavors.

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

Save

Sharing this wreath with family has created lasting memories especially during festive 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

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp white wine or light-bodied red for a perfect combination

Make Ahead Tips

To make ahead prepare through step 9 cover and refrigerate overnight Bake fresh the next day

Save

Enjoy this savory wreath fresh from the oven or reheated It makes any occasion special.

Recipe Help & Answers

→ What type of cheese works best for this wreath?

Mozzarella and Parmesan offer a great balance of melty texture and sharp flavor that complements the herbs and olives.

→ Can I substitute fresh herbs?

Yes, fresh parsley, rosemary, basil, or even thyme work well. Adjust according to flavor preference.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate and rewarm before serving.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

This wreath can be assembled through the shaping step, refrigerated overnight, and baked fresh the next day.

→ What is the best way to serve this wreath?

Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

→ Can this be made vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute cheese with plant-based alternatives and use a flaxseed or aquafaba wash instead of egg.