Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to satisfy your pizza cravings, this pizza bread combines the best of both worlds: the fluffy texture of bread and the cheesy, savory flavors of pizza. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or just a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to please everyone. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Dry Ingredients:
– 2 cups plain flour (all-purpose flour)
– 1½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda (bi-carb soda), sifted
– ½ teaspoon cooking/kosher salt
Wet Ingredients:
– 1 large egg (60g / 2 oz)
– 1 cup milk (full or low fat)
– ¼ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese for Batter:
– 1 cup shredded cheese (colby, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Pizza Toppings:
– 1½ cups shredded cheese (same as above)
– ½ cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– ¼ red onion, finely sliced
– ½ green capsicum (bell pepper), finely sliced
– ¼ cup sliced kalamata olives
– 50g (2 oz) pepperoni slices (about ½ cup)
Prep Time
Preparation for this recipe takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The total cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, including 25 minutes of baking and an additional 15 minutes covered to prevent browning. This recipe yields about 12 servings, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) if using a fan-forced oven. Lightly spray a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13″) metal baking pan with oil, then line it with baking parchment, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, sour cream (or yogurt), and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently mix until the flour is mostly incorporated but the batter remains slightly lumpy.
Add Cheese to Batter
Fold in the 1 cup of shredded cheese into the batter, mixing just until no dry flour remains. It’s acceptable if the batter has small lumps; avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
Assemble in Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover the base.
Add Toppings
Evenly spread the pizza sauce over the batter. Sprinkle the 1½ cups of shredded cheese over the sauce. Distribute the sliced red onion, green capsicum, kalamata olives, and pepperoni slices evenly over the top.
Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this, cover the pan with a baking tray or foil to prevent excessive browning, and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, totaling 40 minutes of baking time.
Cool
Remove the pan from the oven and let the pizza bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment overhang, lift the bread out and transfer it to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for another 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve
Slice the pizza bread into desired portions. It’s designed to be enjoyed at room temperature, making it perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or as a convenient snack.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw as needed.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure the oven reaches the desired temperature before placing your dish inside to promote even cooking and browning.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Thoroughly whisk dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and ensure even distribution of baking powder and salt, which are crucial for rising.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Whisk wet ingredients until smooth; this helps in creating a consistent batter and ensures proper incorporation of flavors.
Combining Ingredients
Gently fold wet into dry ingredients to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense texture. A few lumps in the batter are acceptable.
Adding Cheese to Batter
Fold in cheese carefully, ensuring it is evenly distributed without overworking the batter. This helps maintain a tender crumb.
Arranging Toppings
Layer toppings evenly on the batter, starting with pizza sauce, then cheese, followed by vegetables and meats. This ensures balanced flavor in every bite.
Baking with Care
Cover the dish partway through baking to prevent excessive browning, allowing for thorough cooking without burning the top.
Cooling
Let the baked dish cool briefly in the pan before transferring it to a rack to firm up, making slicing easier and preventing a soggy bottom.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any combination of your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, based on your taste preferences.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze individual slices for longer storage.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni and add more vegetables or use plant-based toppings for a delicious vegetarian option.
Is there a substitute for sour cream or yogurt?
Yes, you can use buttermilk or a non-dairy yogurt alternative if you need a replacement for sour cream or yogurt.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Add or omit spicy toppings, such as jalapeños, according to your heat preference, or choose a milder cheese for less spice.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious pizza bread recipe combines a soft and cheesy batter with an array of flavorful toppings, making it a perfect dish for lunchboxes, picnics, or casual snacking. Its simple preparation and versatile nature allow for creative variations tailored to your taste preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Delight
Substitute the pepperoni with additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Enhance the flavor with a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Bread
Replace the pizza sauce with barbecue sauce and add cooked, shredded chicken, red onions, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Pesto Veggie Bake
Use pesto as the base instead of pizza sauce and top with sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Sausage Extravaganza
Incorporate spicy Italian sausage instead of pepperoni, and add jalapeños for an extra kick. Pair with a blend of Pepper Jack and cheddar cheese.
Breakfast Pizza Bread
Add cooked bacon or sausage, scrambled eggs, and a medley of breakfast vegetables like bell peppers and onions, topped with cheddar cheese for a morning treat.
Four Cheese Wonder
Mix four types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, goat cheese, and parmesan, for a rich, cheesy experience with or without additional toppings.
