Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread.

There’s something undeniably comforting about bread, especially when it’s warm, soft, and packed with flavor. Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread is a delightful take on classic flavors, combining the familiar taste of pretzel bread with a savory filling that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or even a cozy family dinner, this recipe not only looks impressive but is also surprisingly easy to make. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious adventure.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread deserves a coveted spot on your recipe list for several reasons. First, it’s a crowd-pleaser, combining the beloved flavors of spinach and artichoke dip with the chewy delight of pretzel bread. Each pull of dough reveals a gooey, cheesy center that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course paired with a fresh salad. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your bread-making skills, impressing friends and family alike.

Your Shopping Guide

Gathering the right ingredients is key to success in the kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious bread:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water – Essential for activating the yeast.
• 2 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast – The leavening agent for the dough.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps the yeast activate.
• 3 1/2-4 cups all-purpose flour – The base of your dough.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances flavor.
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted – For brushing and flavor.
• Coarse pretzel salt or sea salt – For topping.
• 4 ounces mascarpone cheese – Adds creaminess to the filling.
• 1/2 cup shredded fontina cheese – Melts beautifully.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – For a savory kick.
• 1 clove garlic, minced or grated – A must for flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves – A fragrant herb to elevate the dish.
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a hint of heat.
• 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry of excess water – The star of the filling.
• 1 jar (6-8 ounces) marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped – Brings a tangy flavor to the mix.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen gear to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial.
• Whisk – For mixing the wet ingredients.
• Dough hook or stand mixer – Optional, but helpful for kneading.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – Makes cleanup a breeze.
• Plastic wrap or a kitchen towel – For covering the dough while it rises.

From Start to Finish: Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread.

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making your Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread. Follow these instructions to create a masterpiece that will impress everyone.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and honey. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is activated and ready to go!

Step 2: Mix in Flour and Salt

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add in 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add in more flour until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to make this process easier. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While your dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, shredded fontina cheese, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, chopped spinach, and marinated artichoke hearts. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it back to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 6: Fill and Cut

Spread the cheesy spinach and artichoke filling evenly over the dough rectangle. Then, cut the dough into strips about 2 inches wide and stack the strips on top of each other.

Step 7: Arrange in the Pan

Carefully cut the stacked strips into squares and arrange them upright in a greased loaf pan, packing them closely together.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.

Step 9: Brush and Sprinkle

Once the dough has risen again, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse pretzel salt or sea salt.

Step 10: Bake

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm, pulling apart chunks of this cheesy, herby goodness.

Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to customize your Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread with these options:

• Cheese Variations: Swap fontina for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist.
• Vegetable Additions: Add in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version of this bread.

Flavor Logic

The combination of flavors in this Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread is simply irresistible.

• Cheesy Goodness: The blend of mascarpone, fontina, and parmesan provides a creamy, tangy filling that complements the bread perfectly.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme adds a fragrant note that elevates the overall flavor, making each bite a delight.
• Spinach and Artichoke: The classic pairing brings a familiar taste that’s comforting and satisfying.
• Salty Crust: The coarse salt on top creates a delightful contrast to the softness of the bread and filling.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to prepare this Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread ahead of time, here are some tips:

Prepare the dough and filling, then assemble the bread in the loaf pan. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual pieces in the oven or microwave for a quick snack!

Common Questions

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it briefly to reduce moisture and then squeeze out any excess water before mixing it into the filling.

What if I don’t have marinated artichoke hearts?

If marinated artichoke hearts are unavailable, you can use canned artichokes. Just rinse them well and chop them up before incorporating them into the filling.

Can I freeze the bread?

Yes! You can freeze the unbaked assembled bread. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then allow it to rise before baking.

What should I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup. You can also serve it with marinara sauce or a creamy dip for extra indulgence.

Cook This Next

If you enjoyed making Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread, here are some other delicious recipes you should try:

• Cheesy Garlic Bread
• Vegetable Samosa Baked Pasta
• Vegan Pepperoni Pizza

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked Herbed Spinach and Artichoke Pull Apart Pretzel Bread fill your kitchen. Whether it’s for a gathering or a cozy night in, this bread is sure to impress. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—after all, good food is meant to be shared!