Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

The Caprese Quick Bread Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of basil, mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes. This no-yeast bread is incredibly moist and soft, making it perfect for any occasion—whether as a savory snack or an accompaniment to your favorite meal. Its unique combination of ingredients provides a flavorful twist that sets it apart from traditional breads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh basil and mozzarella create a deliciously rich taste that elevates the humble bread.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as a standalone snack, or serve it alongside soups, salads, or your favorite spreads.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip this up without a stand mixer or complicated kitchen gadgets.
• Healthy Snacking Option: With wholesome ingredients, it’s a great alternative to store-bought snacks.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Caprese Quick Bread, having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Bread pan
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing sticky dough without damaging your bowls.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.
• Bread pan: Provides the shape needed for even baking and presentation.

Ingredients

No-yeast, just moist, soft bread made with fresh basil, fresh mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup bread flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt

Flavorful Additions

• 3 1/2 to 4 oz cubed fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not packed)

Wet Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 tbsp grape-seed oil (can use extra virgin olive oil)
• 1 1/4 cups buttermilk

How to Make Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×4 inch bread pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix well until all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Additions

Add the chopped basil, cubed mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the flour mixture:
1. Stir gently until all ingredients are incorporated into the dry mixture.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs, grape-seed oil, and buttermilk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients:
1. Use a wooden spoon to mix until just combined. The dough will be sticky; do not overmix.

Step 6: Transfer Dough to Pan

Transfer the sticky dough into the prepared bread pan:
1. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes:
1. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready.

Enjoy your delicious Caprese Quick Bread warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

Caprese Quick Bread is a delightful twist on traditional bread, bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients. It can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a snack or part of a meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Standalone Snack

• Perfectly sliced and served warm, this bread is delicious on its own, showcasing the rich flavors of mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes.

With Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar

• Drizzle some high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. This adds a tasty contrast and elevates the bread’s flavor profile.

Paired with Fresh Salad

• Serve it alongside a light salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette complements the savory notes of the bread beautifully.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Enjoy slices of this bread with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. The sweetness of roasted bell peppers or zucchini pairs nicely with the bread’s flavors.

As Part of a Cheese Platter

• Add Caprese Quick Bread to your cheese platter. It pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like goat cheese or creamy brie.

Toasted with Garlic Butter

• For an extra treat, toast slices of the bread with garlic butter until golden. This crispy version makes for an irresistible appetizer.

How to Perfect Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Caprese Quick Bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and mozzarella make a significant difference in flavor. Always opt for high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour for accuracy. This prevents dense bread caused by excess flour.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and airy. Overmixing can lead to tough bread.
• Check Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature; check your bread at 40 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.
• Let it Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This ensures better slicing and prevents sogginess.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

Caprese Quick Bread is versatile and can be paired beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in vinaigrette enhances your meal’s freshness.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Seasoned chicken skewers provide protein that pairs well with the savory notes of the bread.
3. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup creates comfort and balances the textures of the quick bread.
4. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like cheddar or gouda that harmonize well with the flavors found in Caprese Quick Bread.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make for an exciting side dish that adds nutrition.
6. Bruschetta Topping: Top sliced toasted pieces of this bread with tomato bruschetta for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Olive Tapenade: A spread of olive tapenade offers saltiness that contrasts nicely against the richness of the bread’s ingredients.
8. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a satisfying side that rounds out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Caprese Quick Bread Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring measurements: Precision is key in baking. Always measure your ingredients accurately to ensure the right texture and flavor.
• Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease your bread pan can cause your bread to stick. Make sure to grease it well before pouring in the batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Stir just until combined for a soft, tender result.
• Skipping ingredient room temperature: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can affect how the batter combines. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
• Not checking for doneness: Trusting only the baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bread. Use a toothpick to test for doneness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Caprese quick bread in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• This will allow you to freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Caprese Quick Bread Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bread wrapped in aluminum foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat with a little butter until they are heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Caprese Quick Bread Recipe special?

This recipe blends fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes into a moist, flavorful bread that’s simple and quick to make.

Can I customize my Caprese Quick Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs or vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, and even substitute other cheeses according to your preference.

How do I know when my Caprese Quick Bread is done?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Is this Caprese Quick Bread Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This quick bread is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week as a snack or side dish.

Conclusion

The Caprese Quick Bread Recipe is not only delightful but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its moist texture and savory flavors make it an excellent addition to any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this delicious treat!

---