Pull Apart Caprese Bread

Step 1

Into a small bowl measure the water. Sprinkle with sugar and yeast. Stir. Let sit until yeast is activated, about 10 minutes.

Step 2

Using a stand mixer, fitted the dough hook, combine water/yeast mixture ,butter, milk, salt and 1 1/2 cups flour. Begin to knead for about 1-2 minutes. Stir in additional flour gradually. Add enough flour until dough is smooth. It will be slightly sticky Knead for 7-10 minutes. the dough should stick to the bottom of the bowl but clears sides.

Step 3

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, basil and minced garlic. Cut dough into 1-in. pieces; dip into oil mixture. Layer into a greased 9-in. x 5-in. loaf pan. Cover and let rise until almost doubled, about 45 minutes - 1 hour.

Step 4

Meanwhile, 15 minutes before the dough has completely risen, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stuff cubed cheese and half of the tomatoes into the crevices of dough.

Step 5

Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. To check baked dough with a thermometer, it should read 200 degrees. Sprinkle with kosher salt, additional chopped tomatoes, and fresh basil.