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Pesto Swirl Bread

Irresistible Pesto Swirl Bread that Will Wow Your Guests

This Pesto Swirl Bread is a stunningly flavorful addition to any meal, boasting captivating swirls of pesto.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups Bread Flour substitute with all-purpose flour for a softer texture
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast ensure freshness by checking expiry date
  • 1 cup Warm Water temperature should be 100-110°F, milk can be used for richer flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil substitute with melted butter for a different flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Salt ensure accurate measurement for balance
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar can be omitted for a less sweet dough
Pesto Ingredients
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves avoid dried basil for signature green swirls
  • 2 cloves Garlic use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable
  • ¼ cup Pine Nuts can substitute with walnuts or almonds
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese nutritional yeast is a substitute for a vegan version
  • ½ teaspoon Salt use sparingly

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Food Processor
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Kitchen towel

Method
 

Preparation Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine bread flour and salt, then mix in the yeast mixture and olive oil until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
  4. Prepare the pesto by combining basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and salt in a food processor. Drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
  5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the pesto on it, leaving a border. Roll it tightly and pinch to seal.
  6. Place the loaf seam-side down on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  7. Score the top of the loaf and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For optimal results, check yeast activity, leave borders while spreading pesto, and allow thorough cooling before slicing.

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