Description
Savory Caprese Bread is a flavorful and easy-to-make Italian-inspired loaf combining fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil baked into a soft bread. This delightful bread is perfect as a snack or served alongside meals, featuring the classic Caprese flavors enhanced by a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
Filling and Topping
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped (or sun-dried tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the dough: Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development for a good rise.
- Incorporate the filling: Gently fold the chopped tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil into the dough to distribute the flavors evenly without overworking it.
- First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape and second rise: Punch the dough down to release air, shape it into a loaf, and let it rise again for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare for baking: Drizzle olive oil over the top of the dough loaf and sprinkle with garlic powder for added flavor.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. Slice and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger tomato flavor, sun-dried tomatoes can be used instead of fresh cherry tomatoes.
- Garlic powder is optional but adds a nice savory depth to the bread.
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Balsamic glaze can be purchased or made at home by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy.
- Allow the bread to cool slightly to avoid melting the mozzarella too much when slicing.
