Caprese Bread – A Fresh Italian-Inspired Quick Bread
There’s something magical about the simplicity of Italian flavors—tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. They create harmony in every dish, whether it’s a classic Caprese salad or a hearty pasta. Now, imagine all that Mediterranean goodness baked into a warm, fluffy loaf. That’s what Caprese Bread is all about: a savory quick bread that’s bursting with fresh garden flavors, cheesy richness, and a golden crust that begs to be sliced and shared.
This bread is not just food—it’s an experience. Perfect for summer picnics, cozy fall dinners, or holiday appetizers, it’s versatile, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make. Unlike traditional yeast breads that require hours of rising, this recipe uses baking powder, making it a quick bread that comes together in under an hour.
Whether you serve it as a side dish with soup, slice it up for brunch, or enjoy it warm with a drizzle of olive oil, Caprese Bread is destined to become your new favorite savory loaf.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (pat dry to reduce moisture)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the dry mixture by whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the wet ingredients in a separate bowl: whisk together eggs, milk, and olive oil until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry: pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the Caprese flavors: stir in mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
- Transfer to the loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Optional topping: sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool before slicing: let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: no yeast, no long proofing time.
- Bursting with flavor: fresh basil and juicy tomatoes add Mediterranean freshness.
- Versatile: serve it as a side, snack, or appetizer.
- Beautiful presentation: the golden crust with pops of red tomatoes and green basil makes it visually stunning.
Caprese Bread – A Fresh Italian-Inspired Quick Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and olive oil until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
- Transfer batter to prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle Parmesan on top if desired.
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Caprese Bread
- Pat tomatoes dry: too much moisture will make the bread soggy.
- Use fresh basil: dried basil doesn’t provide the same vibrant flavor.
- Grate your own cheese: pre-shredded mozzarella often has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: this can make the bread dense instead of fluffy.
- Try variations: add roasted garlic, swap basil for arugula, or drizzle balsamic glaze before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair slices with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Serve alongside Italian soups like minestrone or tomato basil.
- Slice thin and toast for Caprese bruschetta bites.
- Add as a side to grilled chicken or pasta dinners.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: store wrapped in foil or an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: lasts 4–5 days. Warm slightly before serving.
- Freezer: wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
Caprese Bread isn’t just another loaf—it’s a celebration of Italian flavors baked into comfort food perfection. Whether you’re entertaining guests, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and savory, this quick bread delivers every time. With its cheesy pockets, bursts of tomato sweetness, and aromatic basil, it’s an easy recipe with restaurant-quality results.
So next time you’re looking for a homemade bread that’s both simple and impressive, skip the yeast and whip up a loaf of Caprese Bread. Trust me—one slice won’t be enough.
