Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bloom the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, whisk warm milk with sugar, then sprinkle over the yeast. Let sit until foamy, 5–10 minutes.
- Make the dough: Add the egg, melted butter, salt, and 2 3/4 cups flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes, adding remaining flour as needed, until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Shape into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, 45–60 minutes.
- Make garlic butter: Stir together melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Set aside.
- Shape the balls: Punch down the dough and divide into 32 equal pieces. Flatten each, place a mozzarella cube in the center, pinch the edges to seal, and roll into a smooth ball. Place seam-side down.
- Form the wreath: Line a large baking sheet with parchment. Arrange the balls in a 10–11-inch ring with a smaller inner ring, leaving space between pieces for rising.
- Second rise and preheat: Cover loosely and let rise until puffy, 15–20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once risen, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water and gently brush the dough balls with egg wash just before baking.
- Bake: Bake on the center rack at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, until deep golden and the centers reach approximately 200°F (93°C). If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Finish: Brush the hot wreath with garlic-parsley butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Add flaky salt and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer to a platter, decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs, and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the cheese-filled wreath, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before the final rise. Let the dough become visibly puffy at room temperature before brushing with egg wash and baking.
Cheese Tip: Use low-moisture mozzarella cut into small cubes. Seal the dough balls tightly and place them seam-side down to prevent cheese from leaking.
Storage: Refrigerate leftover bread in an airtight container within 2 hours. Keep for up to 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for approximately 8–10 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
Serving Tip: Serve warm with marinara or pesto for dipping. Garnish with fresh rosemary for a festive Christmas wreath presentation.
Nutrition Note: Approximately 210 calories per serving (2 bread balls), based on 16 servings. This estimate includes a portion of marinara sauce. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients, brands, and portion sizes.
