This fun pull-apart bread looks like a blooming onion! It’s fluffy and cheesy, loaded with melted butter and spices that make each bite irresistible. Perfect for sharing!
I love pulling off a piece and watching the cheese stretch. It’s like a tasty party trick! Pair it with some dipping sauce for extra yum. You’re gonna want seconds, trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A round loaf of crusty bread is essential. I recommend sourdough for its flavor and texture, but a classic boule also works well. If gluten-free is your goal, try gluten-free bread, which might not pull apart as easily but can still taste great.
Cheese: I like using a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar because it melts beautifully and adds rich flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just make sure they melt well.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. If you don’t have them, fresh garlic and onions can work. For the smoked paprika, feel free to swap it with regular paprika for less smoky flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling saltiness, but you can use olive oil as a dairy-free substitute. Just brush it on generously to get that crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Cut the Bread for Pull Apart?
The trickiest part of this recipe is cutting the bread without slicing all the way through. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a serrated knife for easier cutting without squishing the bread.
- Make evenly spaced cuts both vertically and horizontally, about 1 inch apart, stopping just above the base crust.
- Take your time to ensure each cut is deep enough to hold sauce and cheese while keeping the loaf intact.
This method creates a lovely ‘bloom’ effect and allows for those cheesy, buttery layers to shine. Enjoy pulling apart those cheesy pieces!
Bloomin Onion Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 large round loaf of crusty bread (such as sourdough or boule)
For the Butter Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar works well)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
For Dipping:
- Dipping sauce of choice (ranch, spicy mayo, or a creamy dip)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to bake. That’s just about 40 minutes until you can dig into this cheesy, warm bread perfect for sharing or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread will bake evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
2. Score the Bread:
Using a serrated knife, carefully score the bread in a crosshatch pattern. Make vertical and horizontal cuts about 1 inch apart, cutting down toward but not through the bottom crust of the loaf. This technique creates lovely cubes that stay connected at the bottom, showing off that beautiful bread bloom effect.
3. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well to mix all the ingredients.
4. Brush the Butter Mixture:
Slowly brush the seasoned butter mixture in between the cuts of the bread. Make sure to get the butter deep into the slits to maximize flavor. Don’t be afraid to be generous; we want every bite to be flavorful!
5. Stuff with Cheese:
Gently stuff the shredded cheese into all the cuts of the bread. Fill as much as possible so that the cheese is well distributed throughout the loaf. You’ll love the gooey, melted cheese waiting for you!
6. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap the loaf loosely in aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. Your kitchen will smell incredible at this point!
7. Crisp the Crust:
After 15-20 minutes, open the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes uncovered. This allows the bread crust to become crispy and golden brown—just how we like it!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the loaf from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions or chives on top. You can also add fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy pulling apart those cheesy, garlicky bread pieces!
This Bloomin Onion Pull Apart Bread is not just visually stunning; it’s bursting with melted cheese and flavorful buttery spices, making it the perfect snack or party appetizer! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While a crusty round loaf like sourdough or boule is ideal, you can use any large, sturdy bread. Just keep in mind that softer breads might not hold their shape as well.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you want to reduce dairy, try almond or coconut-based cheese alternatives. You can also use a mix of different dairy-free cheeses that melt well to achieve a similar gooey texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bread by scoring it and brushing on the butter mixture in advance. Just cover it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
