Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter Easy Recipe

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October 30, 2025

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Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter : Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Creamy Herb Butter Easy Recipe

Have you ever stopped to think about what makes a meal truly unforgettable? I’ve found, after years spent in my Minneapolis kitchen, that it’s rarely about the complexity of the dish or the expense of the ingredients. Instead, the most powerful food memories are built around connection, a sense of sharing, and a little bit of delicious mess. What if I told you that the secret to creating one of those core memories lies in a simple, rustic loaf of bread? A loaf that isn’t sliced and served, but pulled apart, piece by piece, by the very hands you love. This is the magic of Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter, a recipe that’s less about perfect presentation and more about the joyful act of gathering. The scent alone, that warm cloud of melted butter, toasted garlic, and fresh herbs, is enough to stop time. It pulls everyone into the kitchen, drawn by a promise of comfort that feels both ancient and immediate.

The first time I made this, my two children were young, their hands still small enough to get lost in the crevices of the bread. Jonah, my husband, was setting up his camera to capture the light, but he put it down the moment the loaf came out of the oven. We didn’t even wait for plates. We just stood around the kitchen island, pulling away warm, buttery, herb-flecked pieces, our conversation punctuated by satisfied sighs. It was a simple moment, an unplanned Tuesday dinner, but it’s a memory that has become part of our family’s fabric. This sourdough pull apart bread recipe isn’t just about feeding your family; it’s about creating a moment of togetherness, an edible centerpiece that invites everyone to lean in and share. It’s a testament to my belief that food is language, a way to say “I love you” without uttering a single word. So let’s make more than just a recipe; let’s bake a memory.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter

This is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that becomes a legend in a family, the thing everyone requests for holidays, cozy Sundays, or just because. Here’s why this rustic, beautiful pull apart sourdough loaf will capture your heart and become a staple at your table.

An Irresistible Sensory Experience: The magic begins the moment you start melting the herb butter. Your home will fill with the most incredible aroma a warm, savory perfume of sizzling garlic, earthy rosemary, and rich, melted butter mingling with the tangy scent of toasted sourdough bread. When you pull it from the oven, golden and bubbling, the sound is a gentle crackle of pure satisfaction. Each piece you pull away is a perfect bite: a crispy, toasted edge giving way to a soft, chewy interior, all of it drenched in that glorious herb butter sourdough bread flavor. It’s a full body experience that engages every sense before you even take the first bite.
Wonderfully Forgiving and Easy to Make: This is the definition of an easy sourdough pull apart bread. You don’t need to be a professional baker; in fact, the beauty of this recipe lies in its imperfection. It starts with a pre made loaf of sourdough, which means all the hard work of baking is already done. Your only job is the fun part: slicing, slathering, and baking. There is no dough to knead, no proving times to watch. If a slice is too thick or a crevice isn’t perfectly filled with butter, it doesn’t matter. Every “mistake” just creates a new texture, another crispy corner or gooey center to discover. It’s a recipe that encourages playfulness and builds kitchen confidence.
The Ultimate Centerpiece for Sharing: This bread is designed for community. Placing this stunning, golden loaf in the center of the table is an open invitation for everyone to gather around. It’s less formal than sliced bread, encouraging people to reach in, tear off a piece, and connect. It’s the perfect sourdough pull apart bread for a crowd, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a holiday feast, or just a casual game night with friends. It breaks down barriers and turns a simple meal into a shared, interactive event. My kids love being the first to pull a piece, their faces lighting up with the simple joy of it all.
Endlessly Adaptable and Customizable: Think of this recipe as a canvas for your own creativity. While the classic sourdough bread with garlic herb butter is a masterpiece on its own, the sourdough pull apart bread variations are nearly limitless. Feeling decadent? Transform it into a cheesy sourdough pull apart bread by tucking handfuls of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese into the cuts. Want a bit of spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter. You can swap the herbs based on the season or what’s growing in your garden; thyme and sage are wonderful in the fall, while basil and oregano sing of summer. You could even make a sweet version, a sort of sourdough monkey bread with herb butter’s dessert cousin, using cinnamon sugar butter and a drizzle of icing.

Ingredients for Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter

1 large round loaf (boule) of sourdough bread (about 1.5 lbs or 700g)
1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, melted
6 to 8 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (I love a mix of parsley, rosemary, and thyme)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for an extra gooey, cheesy sourdough pull apart bread.

Ingredient Substitutions:

Sourdough Bread: If you can’t find a round boule, a long sourdough loaf (batard) or even a sturdy country loaf will work. The key is a firm crust and a soft interior.
Butter: For a richer flavor, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon. High quality European style butter offers a wonderful flavor.
Herbs: Don’t have fresh herbs? You can substitute with 1.5 tablespoons of dried herbs. A dried Italian seasoning blend works beautifully.
Garlic: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Substitute 1.5 teaspoons of garlic powder for the fresh cloves.
Cheese: Feel free to experiment! A sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a Monterey Jack would all be delicious additions. For a dairy free option, you can omit the cheese or use your favorite dairy free shreds and Parmesan substitute.

How to Make Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter

Step by Step Instructions

Learning how to make sourdough pull apart bread is one of the most rewarding kitchen skills you can pick up. It’s truly simple, and the results are always spectacular. Just follow these steps, and remember to enjoy the process. The kitchen should be a place of joy, not stress.

Prepare Your Workspace and Oven: First things first, let’s get the oven ready. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, find a sturdy baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will catch any buttery drips and make cleanup a breeze, a little trick I learned after one too many smoky oven incidents.
Slice the Sourdough Loaf: Place your beautiful round loaf of sourdough bread on a cutting board. Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the bread in a grid pattern. First, slice in one direction, making cuts about 1 inch apart. Be very careful not to slice all the way through the bottom crust. You want the loaf to stay connected at the base. Now, rotate the bread 90 degrees and slice again, creating a diamond or square pattern. You should have a beautiful grid of bread cubes, all still attached at the bottom. The goal is to create as many nooks and crannies as possible for the herb butter to seep into.
Create the Magical Herb Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the two sticks of butter over medium low heat. Once it’s melted, add your minced garlic and cook for just a minute or two, until it’s fragrant. You don’t want the garlic to brown, just to release its incredible aroma. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in your finely chopped fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good whisk. Your kitchen should now smell absolutely divine. This mixture is the heart and soul of the herb butter sourdough bread.
Assemble the Pull-Apart Loaf: This is the fun part. Gently pry open the cuts you made in the bread. Using a spoon or a pastry brush, drizzle the melted herb butter mixture deep into all the crevices. Be generous! You want every single piece of bread to be coated in that deliciousness. As you work, some butter will inevitably run down the sides, and that’s perfectly fine; it will just make the crust extra crispy and golden. After you’ve used about half of the butter, it’s time for the cheese. Carefully stuff the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional shredded mozzarella cheese down into the cuts. Follow up with the remaining herb butter, drizzling it all over the top.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Carefully transfer the fully loaded loaf to your prepared baking sheet. To keep the inside soft and steamy while the cheese melts, wrap the entire loaf loosely in aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. This first bake is all about warming the bread through and melting everything into a gooey dream.
The Final Bake for a Crispy Top: After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the bread. You’ll be greeted by the sight of melted cheese and bubbling butter. Return the unwrapped loaf to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown and beautifully crisp. The edges should be crunchy, and the center should be irresistibly cheesy and soft.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes. It will be incredibly hot. Then, place the entire loaf on a large platter or wooden board and bring it straight to the table. The only instruction for your guests is to dive in and pull.

Pro Tips & Variations

After making this recipe dozens of times for family dinners, potlucks, and quiet nights in, Jonah and I have gathered a few little secrets to make it even more spectacular. And because every kitchen is a place for creativity, I love dreaming up sourdough pull apart bread variations to suit any mood or occasion.

Pro-Tips for Perfection:

Choose the Right Bread: The foundation of this recipe is, of course, the sourdough bread. Look for a rustic, artisan style loaf with a very firm, crunchy crust and a chewy, open crumb. The strong crust is essential to hold the loaf together after you slice it and load it with butter and cheese. A flimsy loaf will simply fall apart.
The Double Bake Method: The two stage baking process is key. The first covered bake steams the inside of the loaf, ensuring the bread is warm, soft, and the cheese is perfectly melted. The second uncovered bake is what creates that irresistible contrast: a shatteringly crisp, golden brown top. Don’t rush this second step; it’s where the magic really happens. This method is inspired by some great advice from resources like Allrecipes, which also emphasizes getting that perfect texture.
Don’t Skimp on the Butter: This is not the time to be shy! It might seem like a lot of butter, but that is what makes every single bite so decadent and flavorful. Ensure you get the herb butter into every corner. A small spoon or even just your fingers (once the butter has cooled a bit) can be more effective than a brush for getting deep into those crevices.
Make It Ahead: You can assemble the entire pull apart sourdough loaf up to a day in advance. Simply slice, stuff with butter and cheese, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add 5-10 minutes to the initial covered baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This makes it an incredible option for stress free entertaining. For a different roll-based approach you love making ahead, our easy fluffy classic dinner rolls are also a fantastic choice. The technique is a bit different but the comforting result is the same.

Fun Variations to Try:

Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread: For the cheese lovers, make it a truly garlic parmesan sourdough pull apart bread by doubling the parmesan and adding a cup of sharp white cheddar or Gruyère along with the mozzarella. The combination of salty Parmesan and melty, stringy cheddar is pure comfort. This version reminds me of the best parts of a gourmet creamy baked mac and cheese, just in bread form.
Holiday Cranberry & Brie: For a festive twist perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, swap the herbs for fresh thyme and a bit of sage. In place of mozzarella, tuck in small cubes of brie and a handful of dried cranberries. A sprinkle of chopped pecans on top before the final bake adds a wonderful crunch. It pairs beautifully with Easy Homemade Classic Cranberry Sauce served on the side.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar: Give your bread a fiery kick by adding one or two finely diced jalapeños (remove the seeds for less heat) to the herb butter. Use sharp cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a bold flavor that stands up to the spice. This version is incredible served alongside a bowl of chili.
Sweet Sourdough Monkey Bread Style: For a dessert or brunch version, omit the garlic and savory herbs. Instead, mix the melted butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Drizzle this into the bread cuts and bake as directed. Once it’s out of the oven, drizzle it with a simple powdered sugar glaze. It’s a fun, shareable take on sourdough monkey bread with herb butter that kids and adults adore.

Serving Suggestions

One of the things I love most about this Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter is its versatility. It can be the star of the show, a humble companion to a grander meal, or the perfect vehicle for dipping. It’s a social food, meant to be shared, so I often build a meal around it that encourages that same sense of warmth and community. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it, straight from my family’s table to yours.

With a Hearty, Dippable Soup: There is no better partner for this bread than a warm, comforting bowl of soup. The crispy, buttery pieces are absolutely perfect for dipping. On a chilly Minneapolis evening, there’s nothing I love more than serving this bread alongside a big pot of creamy butternut squash soup. The sweetness of the squash is a beautiful contrast to the savory garlic and herbs. A classic tomato soup, a hearty lentil stew, or a rich and creamy potato leek soup are also fantastic options. The bread becomes both utensil and side dish, a truly satisfying combination.
As the Centerpiece of a Pasta Night: Turn your next pasta dinner into a feast by placing this sourdough bread with garlic herb butter in the middle of the table. It’s the ultimate tool for mopping up every last bit of delicious sauce from your plate. It pairs wonderfully with a simple spaghetti and meatballs, a rich bolognese, or a creamy Alfredo. The tangy sourdough cuts through the richness of the pasta, creating a perfectly balanced meal that feels both rustic and indulgent.
Alongside a Big, Fresh Salad: To create a lighter meal that still feels special, pair the warm, decadent bread with a crisp, refreshing salad. The contrast is wonderful. I often make a large Autumn Harvest Salad with Pear, Pecan, and Blue Cheese. The sweetness of the pears, the crunch of the pecans, and the sharpness of the blue cheese are a perfect foil for the rich, garlicky bread. A simple Caesar salad or a Greek salad with plenty of fresh vegetables and feta would also be excellent choices.
As a Crowd Pleasing Appetizer: You don’t need a full meal to enjoy this bread. It stands on its own as a spectacular appetizer for any gathering. Serve it on a large wooden board surrounded by a few simple accompaniments. A small bowl of high quality olive oil for extra dipping, a dish of marinated olives, some sliced charcuterie, and perhaps a small bunch of grapes. This transforms the bread into a mini grazing board, perfect for holiday parties or casual get togethers with friends. It can also be served with a variety of dips, making it a great sourdough pull apart bread with dipping sauce option. A warm marinara sauce or a creamy spinach and artichoke dip would be heavenly.

Storage & Reheating

While this sourdough pull apart bread is absolutely best served warm and fresh from the oven, leftovers are a very happy thing to have. Here’s the best way to store and reheat it to bring back some of that initial magic.

Storage:

Refrigerator: Allow the bread to cool completely to room temperature. Wrap the leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it very securely in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrap will protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

The best way to reheat the bread is in the oven, which helps to re crisp the crust and re melt the butter and cheese.

From the Refrigerator: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil wrapped bread directly on the oven rack and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and the cheese is gooey again. For an extra crispy top, you can open the foil for the last few minutes of baking.
From the Freezer: You can bake the bread directly from frozen. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil wrapped frozen bread in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until completely heated through.
Air Fryer: For smaller portions, an air fryer works wonders! Place a few pieces in the air fryer basket at 350°F (175°C) and heat for 3 to 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
Microwave (In a Pinch): While not the ideal method as it can make the bread soft, you can use the microwave if you’re short on time. Place the bread on a microwave safe plate and heat in 30 second intervals until warm.

FAQ about Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter

What is the best type of sourdough to use?
The best bread to use is a large, round artisan sourdough boule with a thick, sturdy crust. The strong crust is essential because it acts as a bowl, holding everything together as it bakes. A bread that is too soft or flimsy will fall apart once you slice it and add the butter. Look for a loaf that feels heavy for its size and has a nice, chewy interior.

Can I make this with other types of bread?
Absolutely! While the tangy flavor of sourdough is a classic pairing for garlic herb butter, this pull apart method works beautifully with other rustic breads. A sturdy Italian loaf, a French boule, or a hearty country bread are all excellent alternatives. Just be sure to choose a loaf with a good crust.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs work just fine. The general rule of thumb is to use one third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh. For this recipe, about 1.5 tablespoons of a dried herb blend (like Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence) would be a great substitute for the 1/4 cup of fresh herbs.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning in the butter?
The key is to use low, gentle heat. When you melt the butter and add the garlic, keep the heat on medium low and only cook it for a minute or two, just until you can smell its wonderful fragrance. You are just infusing the butter, not sautéing the garlic. If the garlic begins to brown, it can become bitter, so pull it off the heat right away. This will ensure you get a sweet, roasted garlic flavor throughout your Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter.

Final Thoughts on Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter

There are recipes that nourish the body, and then there are recipes that nourish the soul. This, for me, is one of the latter. It is more than just a list of ingredients or a set of instructions; it’s a a ritual. It’s the satisfying heft of the sourdough loaf in your hands, the rhythmic slicing of the crust, the fragrant cloud that fills your kitchen as the herb butter melts. It’s the beautiful, messy, wonderful act of sharing food with the people who make your house a home.

In our family, this Sourdough Pull Apart Bread with Herb Butter has become a language of its own. It says “welcome” to friends who drop by unexpectedly. It says “I’m thinking of you” on a difficult day. And most of all, it says “let’s gather” on those nights when we all need to reconnect. I hope it finds a similar place in your kitchen and in your heart. I hope you make it, share it, and create your own stories around it.

If you make this easy sourdough pull apart bread, I would be so delighted to hear about it. Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know how it turned out for you. And if you’d like to save this recipe for a cozy day, be sure to pin it on Pinterest! For more stories and recipes from my kitchen, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter. Every meal tells a story, and I am so grateful to share mine with you.