The Art of Ultimate Savory Caprese Bread Perfection

Perfect Dough Development Mastery

Master the technique of kneading and proofing dough for optimal texture and rise.

Filling Distribution Excellence

Learn the skill of layering caprese ingredients for even flavor in every slice.

Rolling and Shaping Perfection

Perfect the method of rolling filled dough tightly without squeezing out ingredients.

Baking Temperature Technique

Master the art of achieving golden crust while ensuring fully cooked interior.

Finishing and Presentation Strategy

Learn optimal glazing and garnishing techniques for restaurant-quality appearance.

Gourmet Bread Mastery Secrets for Perfect Savory Caprese Combination

Moisture Control: Pat tomatoes dry thoroughly to prevent soggy bread during baking.

Cheese Distribution: Use fresh mozzarella cubes rather than shredded for better texture and melting.

Rolling Technique: Roll dough tightly to prevent air pockets and ensure even filling distribution.

Temperature Check: Use instant-read thermometer to ensure bread is fully baked (190°F internal).

Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil after baking as garnish for brightest color and flavor.

Make Ahead: Prepare dough night before, refrigerate, and let come to room temperature before shaping.

Ultimate Savory Caprese Bread with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pesto

Name: Ultimate Savory Caprese Bread with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pesto
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 1 large loaf (8-10 slices)
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Bread Dough Foundation:; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1½ teaspoons salt; For the Liquid Components:; 1 cup warm water (110°F); ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons milk; For the Caprese Filling:; 2 cups fresh mozzarella, cubed; 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn; For the Pesto Swirl:; ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; For the Garlic Infusion:; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Italian Seasonings:; 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil; For the Balsamic Glaze:; ¼ cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; For the Topping Enhancement:; ½ cup shredded mozzarella

The ultimate savory caprese bread featuring fluffy artisan bread studded with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil pesto, and balsamic glaze, baked to golden perfection. This Italian-inspired comfort food masterpiece combines the classic flavors of caprese salad with the warm, satisfying comfort of freshly baked bread, creating an unforgettable bread experience that elevates simple Italian ingredients to extraordinary heights perfect for dinner parties, summer gatherings, brunch, or any time you crave the perfect balance of fresh, savory, and aromatic flavors.

Prep Time

25 Minutes

Cook Time

30 Minutes

Total Time

55 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Bread Dough Foundation:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1½ teaspoons salt

For the Liquid Components:

1 cup warm water (110°F)

¼ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons milk

For the Caprese Filling:

2 cups fresh mozzarella, cubed

1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

For the Pesto Swirl:

½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Garlic Infusion:

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Italian Seasonings:

1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon dried basil

For the Balsamic Glaze:

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons honey

For the Topping Enhancement:

½ cup shredded mozzarella

¼ cup grated Parmesan for sprinkling

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For the Flavor Additions:

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon water

For the Finishing Touch:

Coarse sea salt for topping

Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

For Special Equipment:

Large mixing bowl

9x5 inch loaf pan

Parchment paper

Pastry brush

Instructions

Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in bowl and let stand 5 minutes until foamy.

Add flour, salt, and olive oil to yeast mixture in large bowl.

Mix ingredients together until shaggy dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes.

Knead dough until smooth and elastic, adding flour if too sticky.

Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour until doubled.

Meanwhile, prepare balsamic glaze by simmering vinegar and honey until thickened.

Drain cherry tomatoes on paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Mix melted butter with minced garlic and set aside for brushing.

Punch down risen dough and roll into large rectangle on floured surface.

Spread basil pesto evenly over dough surface, leaving 1-inch border.

Scatter cubed mozzarella, halved tomatoes, and torn basil over pesto layer.

Sprinkle with Italian herbs, oregano, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.

Roll dough tightly from long side, pinching seam to seal completely.

Place rolled dough seam-side down in greased loaf pan.

Cover loaf and let rise 30-45 minutes until puffy and increased in size.

Preheat oven to 375°F during second rise for optimal baking temperature.

Brush top of loaf with beaten egg wash for golden, shiny finish.

Sprinkle top with shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and coarse sea salt.

Bake for 28-32 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F.

Remove from oven and brush immediately with garlic butter mixture.

Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to wire rack.

Drizzle balsamic glaze over warm bread for authentic caprese finish.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan if desired.

Slice with serrated knife and serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Store leftovers wrapped in foil and reheat in oven before serving.

Ultimate Savory Caprese Bread with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pesto

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Savory Caprese Bread Perfection

Ultimate Savory Caprese Bread with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pesto

Ingredients

Instructions