1. Prepare the Dough:

• Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is crucial to ensure the yeast is activated properly.

• Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the bowl, stirring until the mixture is combined into a dough.

• Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour to help it come together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

• Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is rising, mix the filling ingredients together. In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, melted butter, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Set this mixture aside as it will be used to fill the dough.

3. Assemble the Pull-Apart Buns:

• Roll the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches).

• Add the Filling: Brush the dough with some melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the cheese filling across the surface of the dough.

• Cut and Stack: Cut the dough into squares (about 3×3 inches) and stack them in a greased 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch square baking dish. Arrange the dough pieces so they are slightly touching one another, creating the signature pull-apart effect when baked.

4. Final Rise:

Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until the buns are puffed up and touching each other.

5. Bake the Buns:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Once the buns have risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and the cheese is bubbly and melted inside.

• Final Touch: Remove the buns from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the buns cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve them warm, and enjoy the cheesy, gooey goodness that will have everyone coming back for more!