Description
This Pull-Apart Heart is a delightful and visually stunning bread recipe perfect for sharing. Soft, fluffy dough combined with melted mozzarella or cheddar cheese and fresh herbs is shaped into a charming heart, ideal for festive occasions or cozy family gatherings. The bread is yeast-leavened, naturally risen, and baked to a golden perfection that invites pulling apart bite-sized cheesy squares.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
Filling
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil or oregano (chopped)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and the melted butter. Stir until a dough begins to form. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let It Rise: Oil a clean bowl and place the kneaded dough inside, turning once to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm place to rise until the dough doubles in size, around 1 hour.
- Prepare Filling: While the dough is rising, mix the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the chopped fresh basil or oregano in a bowl. This will be your flavorful filling.
- Shape Your Heart: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air. Roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Cut the dough into small squares. Place a spoonful of the cheese-herb mixture onto each square, then fold over the dough to enclose the filling.
- Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet and arrange the filled dough squares in a heart shape. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the water for activating yeast is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast; 110°F is ideal.
- If preferred, you can substitute herbs with garlic powder or Italian seasoning for flavor variation.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer taste and gooey texture.
- Make sure to seal the dough squares well to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
- This bread is best served warm to enjoy the melted cheese pull-apart effect.
