Pull Apart Bread with Basil Pesto Recipe
Overview
Dive into the delightful world of homemade bread with this Pull Apart Bread with Basil Pesto recipe, a charming and aromatic creation that pairs beautifully with various dishes, particularly the Roasted Eggplant & Olive Lasagna. With its tender, fluffy texture and fragrant basil pesto filling, this dish is perfect for any occasion, especially a cozy Sunday lunch with loved ones.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1/2 cup |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Active Dry Yeast | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Homemade Basil Pesto | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 230 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Preparation Time
| Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 60 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 105 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Instructions
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Bloom the Yeast: Begin by activating your yeast, which is a crucial step for achieving that perfect rise in your bread. In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast and sugar. Pour in 1/2 cup of lukewarm water and let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes. You should see it froth up, indicating that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
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Prepare the Dough: While the yeast is blooming, gather your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and instant oats. Once the yeast mixture has become frothy, pour it into the bowl with the flour mixture.
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Knead the Dough: Using your hands or a stand mixer, knead the dough until it is firm and smooth. The kneading process typically takes about 10 minutes. If kneading by hand, use a pull and fold motion on a clean, floured countertop until the dough feels supple and elastic.
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First Proof: Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, allowing it to proof in a warm place until it doubles in size—this will take roughly 30 minutes.
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Shape the Loaf: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Knead it briefly for a few seconds and then shape it into a small loaf.
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Prepare for Baking: Grease a baking tray with olive oil and arrange the shaped dough pieces about an inch apart. For a beautiful golden crust, brush the top of the dough with a mixture of milk and honey (or egg wash) for added gloss and flavor.
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Second Proof: Allow the shaped dough to rest for another 10 minutes while your oven preheats to 180°C (350°F).
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Bake the Bread: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the bread turns a lovely golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen as the bread bakes to perfection.
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Create Crisscross Cuts: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven. Using a serrated knife, carefully make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the top of the loaf, creating a crisscross pattern. This allows for the delicious pesto filling to penetrate the bread.
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Fill with Pesto: Generously fill the cuts with your homemade basil pesto, allowing it to seep into the bread, enhancing its flavor profile.
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Flash Bake: For a final touch, place the bread back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes at 200°C (392°F). This will help set the pesto and ensure everything is warm and inviting.
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Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, and serve it warm. This Pull Apart Bread with Basil Pesto is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, paired with your favorite sides, particularly the Roasted Eggplant & Olive Lasagna for a sumptuous meal.
Tips for Success
- Homemade Basil Pesto: If you’re looking for a delightful twist, consider making your basil pesto from scratch. Use fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for an authentic taste.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a slightly different texture, feel free to experiment by replacing a portion of whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that this will alter the nutritional content.
This Pull Apart Bread with Basil Pesto recipe not only offers an inviting presentation but also encapsulates the essence of comfort food with a twist, making it an irresistible appetizer that is bound to impress your guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful aroma as you share this culinary creation with family and friends.
