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Cheesy Braided Pesto Bread

Cheesy Braided Pesto Bread: Your New Comfort Food Delight

Cheesy Braided Pesto Bread is a delightful vegetarian treat combining fresh basil pesto and melted cheese for unforgettable flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Consider substituting with bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • 2 teaspoons Instant Yeast Can be replaced with active dry yeast (proof in warm milk first).
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Substitute with 2% or dairy-free milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 large Eggs For an egg-free option, use ¼ cup vegetable oil or a flax egg.
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil Canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Use sea salt if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Can be omitted for a less sweet bread.
For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Basil Packed.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Can be substituted with garlic powder or omitted.
  • ¼ cup Pine Nuts Toasted.
  • ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Regular olive oil can work as a substitute.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Grated. Nutritional yeast serves as a dairy-free option.
Optional Ingredient
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Enhances cheesiness if added.

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer
  • Food processor
  • Loaf Pan

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In your stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour and instant yeast. Gradually pour in whole milk along with one egg, neutral oil, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed for about 30 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
  2. While the dough rises, grab your food processor. Add garlic and toasted pine nuts and blend until finely chopped. Gradually add the fresh basil and olive oil, processing until you achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface, folding gently to release any air bubbles. Allow the dough to rest for 20 minutes, covering it with a kitchen towel.
  4. After resting, roll the dough into a 16"x10" rectangle on your floured surface. Carefully spread the pesto evenly over the surface.
  5. Starting from the top edge of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough down to create a log shape. Cut the log in half lengthwise and twist each half together to form a braid.
  6. Place the braided bread in a parchment-lined loaf pan and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for 2 to 2.5 hours until the dough has doubled in size.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the braided bread with an egg wash and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store cooled bread wrapped in plastic or airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for about 5 days in warm kitchens. Freeze for up to 3 months, slice before freezing for easier thawing.

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