As a baker, I’ve always been drawn to recipes that combine simplicity with vibrant flavors, and this Easy Tomato Basil Bread is one of those creations that never fails to impress. I first experimented with it on a quiet Sunday morning, wanting to fill my kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, enriched with the sweetness of tomatoes and the refreshing essence of basil. From the very first bite, I knew this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire—it’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
You will love this recipe because it transforms basic ingredients into a loaf that feels gourmet yet remains incredibly easy to make. Unlike complicated bread recipes that require hours of preparation and specialized techniques, this one is approachable for bakers of all levels. Its delightful combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic creates a savory bread that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or even as a standalone snack. The rich, golden crust and tender interior make every slice irresistible.
Another reason this bread is so appealing is its versatility. You can enjoy it warm out of the oven with a touch of butter, toast it lightly for a sandwich, or use it as the base for bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. It adapts effortlessly to both casual family meals and elegant gatherings. Additionally, the recipe allows room for customization, whether you want to add shredded cheese, a sprinkle of herbs, or even roasted vegetables for extra depth of flavor.
Affordability is another advantage. The ingredients are common pantry staples—flour, yeast, salt, olive oil, fresh tomatoes, and basil—making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste. You don’t need expensive or exotic components to create a loaf that looks and tastes impressive.
Ingredients for Easy Tomato Basil Bread:
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3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast
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1 tsp salt
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 cup warm water
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 cup finely chopped fresh tomatoes
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½ cup chopped fresh basil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese (your choice)
This bread brings together flavor, simplicity, and affordability in a way that few recipes can. From the first slice to the last crumb, it’s a comforting treat that fills your home with warmth and joy.
Preparing this Easy Tomato Basil Bread is simple, yet the results feel sophisticated and fresh. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your bread turns out soft, flavorful, and perfectly golden every time.
How to Prepare This Recipe
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Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures your bread will rise beautifully.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir thoroughly so that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
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Incorporate wet ingredients: Create a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually mix until the dough begins to form.
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Add flavorings: Gently fold in the chopped tomatoes, basil, and minced garlic. Ensure the ingredients are evenly incorporated throughout the dough, but avoid overmixing, which can make the bread dense.
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Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but do so sparingly to maintain a soft texture.
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First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This step is essential for a light and airy loaf.
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Shape the bread: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release excess air. Shape it into a loaf or place it into a greased loaf pan. You can also divide it into smaller rolls if desired.
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Second rise: Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30–40 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake the bread: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The loaf should be golden brown, and tapping the bottom should produce a hollow sound, indicating it is fully baked.
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Cool before slicing: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and prevents crumbling.
Quick and Easy
This bread may seem elaborate, but with the step-by-step instructions, it’s surprisingly fast and straightforward. From mixing to baking, you can have fresh, aromatic bread on your table in just under two hours.
Customizable
You can easily adapt this recipe. Adding shredded cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or extra herbs like oregano or thyme will enhance the flavor. For a twist, try using whole wheat flour or adding a few seeds on top for texture.
Popular with Many People
Its soft, flavorful interior and slightly crisp crust make this bread a favorite among family and friends. Served warm with olive oil or butter, it is often gone within minutes, proving just how crowd-pleasing it truly is.
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Easy Tomato Basil Bread
This Easy Tomato Basil Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf perfect for any meal. Soft on the inside with a golden crust, it combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic to create a bread that’s simple, versatile, and irresistible. Ideal for sandwiches, alongside soups, or as a snack on its own, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh tomatoes
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese (your choice)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt thoroughly.
- Make a well in the center, pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, and mix until dough begins to form.
- Fold in chopped tomatoes, basil, and minced garlic evenly. Avoid overmixing.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and shape into a loaf or divide into rolls.
- Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Ensure tomatoes are not overly watery to prevent soggy dough.
Optional cheese or herbs can be added to enhance flavor.
For rolls, reduce baking time to 15–20 minutes depending on size.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, but drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dough too sticky. Finely chop or crush them before adding to the dough.
2. How long does this bread stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays fresh for 2–3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread; it can last up to a month.
3. Can I make this bread without kneading?
You can try a no-knead method, but the texture may be slightly denser. For best results, follow the kneading steps for a soft, airy loaf.
4. Can I add other herbs or seasonings?
Absolutely. Ingredients like oregano, thyme, or rosemary pair beautifully with the tomato and basil flavors. You can also sprinkle garlic powder or grated cheese on top before baking.
5. What’s the best way to reheat the bread?
Wrap slices in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes, or lightly toast slices for a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft.
6. Can I make rolls instead of a loaf?
Yes. Divide the dough into smaller portions, shape into rolls, and adjust the baking time to 15–20 minutes depending on their size.
7. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free flour?
Whole wheat flour works well but may yield a slightly denser loaf. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for yeast-based breads.