Description
This Savory Caprese Bread is a delightful, easy-to-make Italian-inspired loaf packed with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Enhanced with garlic powder and olive oil, then finished with a balsamic glaze and fresh basil garnish, this bread offers a perfect blend of flavors perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a savory accompaniment to any meal.
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: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the dough: Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough vigorously for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten for a good bread structure.
- Incorporate the fillings: Gently fold the shredded mozzarella, chopped cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh basil into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed without crushing the ingredients.
- First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size, indicating proper fermentation.
- Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough to remove air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased pan and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes, gently preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
- Prepare for baking: Drizzle the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder evenly on top to add flavor and create a golden crust.
- Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. Slice the bread and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a final burst of flavor.
Notes
- The garlic powder is optional but adds a nice savory dimension to the bread.
- The bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor if fresh cherry tomatoes aren’t available.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a preheated baking stone or tray if available.