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–+ servings
Tomato Basil Bread (

Irresistibly Soft Tomato Basil Bread for Beginner Bakers

This Easy Artisan Tomato Basil Bread features a crusty exterior and soft crumb, perfect for novice bakers and full of harmonious flavors.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1.5 cups warm water about 110°F (43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional
  • 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast active dry yeast can be used as a substitute
  • 4 cups bread flour can substitute all-purpose flour, but texture will differ
  • 1 tablespoon salt essential for flavor
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil brush on top before baking
For the Flavor
  • 1 cup rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes use high-quality, dry-packed tomatoes
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped, use dried basil as substitute if needed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder fresh garlic cloves can be swapped for a stronger taste
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese other hard cheeses can be used as a substitute

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • wooden spoon
  • parchment paper
  • oven
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tomato Basil Bread
  1. Combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a large bowl; let sit until frothy (5-10 minutes).
  2. Stir in olive oil to the yeast mixture.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together bread flour, salt, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
  4. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry mixture; fold in sun-dried tomatoes and basil until combined.
  5. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic; form into a ball.
  6. Let the dough rise in a lightly oiled bowl covered with a towel for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf; place seam side down on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
  9. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C); add a shallow pan of hot water on the bottom rack for steam.
  10. Score the top of the loaf and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Cool on a wire rack completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best results and allow to cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.

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