Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, mixing until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
4. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Rosemary Butter

1. Make the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and salt. Stir well to combine.
2. Divide Butter Mixture: Reserve a few tablespoons of the mixture for brushing over the top of the bread before baking.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×15 inches in size.
2. Spread the Butter Mixture: Using a pastry brush or spoon, evenly spread the garlic rosemary butter over the dough, making sure the entire surface is covered.
3. Cut and Stack: Cut the dough vertically into four long strips. Stack the strips on top of each other, then cut into 4 equal sections again, creating 16 small squares.
4. Arrange in Pan: Grease a loaf pan and carefully stack the dough squares on their sides, one after another, until the pan is filled. This stacking will create the “pull-apart” effect after baking.
5. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with a clean cloth and allow the dough to rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Brush the top of the dough with the reserved garlic rosemary butter. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes.