Name: Cheesy Ham and Bread Wreath
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C); ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 cup diced ham; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

During the festive season, finding the perfect appetizer can be a delightful challenge. The Cheesy Ham and Bread Wreath stands out as a crowd-pleasing option that combines the warmth of homemade bread with the savory flavors of cheese and ham. This dish not only looks beautiful on a holiday table but also offers a comforting, gooey texture that beckons guests to indulge. Originating from rustic baking traditions, this recipe allows you to create a stunning centerpiece that’s perfect for any gathering, be it a festive brunch or a holiday party. With its easy preparation and irresistible flavor, this cheesy pull-apart bread is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of savory holiday appetizers.

Ingredients

For the Bread Wreath:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Note: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. You can learn more about this topic.

Steps / Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix well until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of warm milk, ¼ cup of melted butter, and 1 large egg. Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough begins to form. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of diced ham, 2 cups of shredded cheese, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
Spread the ham and cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a circular pattern on a greased baking sheet, forming a wreath. Ensure they are slightly touching.
Cover the wreath with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the wreath with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use freshly grated cheese instead of packaged pre-shredded cheese, as it melts better and creates a gooey texture. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the wreath up to the point of the second rise, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before brushing with egg wash and baking. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Common mistakes include over-kneading the dough or not allowing it to rise properly. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active by checking its expiration date before starting. For serving, this Cheesy Ham and Bread Wreath pairs wonderfully with creamy cheese dips or a tangy mustard for extra flavor.

Variations

Feel free to swap out the ham for cooked sausage or diced chicken for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or feta for a tangy alternative. For a sweeter version, try using cinnamon sugar mixed with cheese combinations. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste, making it a delightful centerpiece for holiday entertaining.