Imagine biting into a warm slice of bread bursting with the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This caprese quick bread is just that—a savory, easy-to-make loaf that brings the classic Italian Caprese salad to your table in bread form.
Whether you want a flavorful snack, a unique side, or a tasty addition to your meal, this caprese quick bread recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious bread quickly with simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under an hour.
- Combines classic Caprese flavors in a convenient bread form.
- Perfect for sandwiches, snacks, or alongside soups and salads.
- Moist and tender crumb with melty mozzarella pockets.
- Great for entertaining or casual family meals.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and pantry staples for a perfect caprese quick bread.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: Approximately 220 per slice
How to Make Caprese Quick Bread – Your New Favorite Savory Bread Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the milk and olive oil until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and chopped basil leaves evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. The batter will be thick but spreadable.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the cooled bread slices for an extra touch of sweetness and tang.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid dense bread; fold ingredients gently.
- Drain or pat dry cherry tomatoes if they are very watery to prevent sogginess.
- Fresh mozzarella melts better and tastes creamier than pre-shredded versions.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dry ingredients.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover caprese quick bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?
Yes, sun-dried tomatoes can be used but they will provide a more intense, concentrated flavor and less moisture. If you do, consider reducing any added oil slightly to balance the texture.
Is this bread gluten-free friendly?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you can try a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend, but the texture and rise may vary slightly.
Can I substitute fresh basil with dried basil?
Fresh basil is recommended for its bright flavor and color. If using dried basil, use about one-third the amount and add it to the dry ingredients, though the taste will be less fresh.
How should I serve caprese quick bread?
This bread is delicious warm or at room temperature. Serve it alongside salads, soups, or use it to make savory sandwiches. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spread of pesto enhances the flavors.