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 quickly became my favorite holiday appetizer because it looks impressive yet is surprisingly easy to make.
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 This wreath is always a hit at family gatherings bringing everyone together around the table to pull apart the bread and share stories.
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.
Pairings
Pair with a crisp white wine or light-bodied red for the perfect appetizer experience.
Make Ahead Tips
To make ahead prepare through step 9 cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
Save This herb and cheese olive wreath will elevate your appetizer game and impress your guests every time.
Kitchen Guide
- → What herbs are best for this bread?
Fresh parsley, rosemary, and basil provide aromatic and savory notes that complement the cheese and olives well.
- → Can I use different cheeses in this bread?
Yes, mozzarella and Parmesan give a nice melt and sharpness, but you can experiment with provolone or fontina for varied flavors.
- → How do I shape the wreath for even baking?
After rolling and cutting the filled dough lengthwise, twist the strands gently, then form a circle by pinching ends together to maintain shape while baking.
- → Is it better to serve this bread warm or cold?
It’s best served warm or at room temperature to enjoy the melted cheese and fresh herb aromas fully.
- → Can I prepare the wreath in advance?
Yes, prepare through shaping, cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh the next day for convenience.