Pizza Twist Bread

Step 1

To make the dough: Combine the ingredients in the order listed, mixing until the dough comes together.

Step 2

, Knead the dough for 6 to 8 minutes, until it's smooth and silky. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until almost doubled, 60 to 90 minutes.

Step 3

, To make the filling: Combine the pizza sauce, tomato paste, and Pizza Seasoning or herbs in a small bowl; set aside.

Step 4

, To shape the bread: After the dough has risen, deflate it and roll it into a 10” x 14” rectangle with a short side facing you.

Step 5

, Spread the sauce mixture over the dough, leaving 1/2” on both short sides uncovered. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the sauce, then the mozzarella cubes.

Step 6

, Roll the dough from a short side, pinching it closed along the seam and at one end.

Step 7

, Starting 1” in from the closed end, slice all the way through the dough to reveal the filling.

Step 8

, Turn each piece of dough so the filling is facing upwards. Twist the two pieces of dough over one another two or three times, tucking the ends under.

Step 9

, Grease a 12” x 4” tea loaf pan. Place the loaf in it with the filling facing up.

Step 10

, Cover the loaf and let it rise until it’s puffy looking, about 45 minutes. Toward the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 11

, To bake the bread: Uncover the loaf and bake it for 30 minutes. Tent it lightly with foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes (for a total of 40 to 45 minutes). The center of the bread should read 190°F on a digital thermometer.

Step 12

, Remove the bread from the oven and cool it for 20 minutes before tipping it out of the pan onto a rack. Serve warm.

Step 13

, Storage information: Store any leftovers, well wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated 325°F oven for 10 minutes, or until the bread's as warm as you like.