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.
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.