Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 0.9 cups (210 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon (3 grams) yeast
• 2 cups (300 grams) bread flour or wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) salt

For the Filling and Topping:

• Mozzarella sticks (cut into 1cm strips)
• 3 tablespoons tomato sauce (preferably thick pizza tomato sauce)
• Grated mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and activated.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, stirring as you go. Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it onto a clean surface.
4. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much as it can make the dough dense.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Shape and Stuff the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
2. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks: Cut mozzarella sticks into 1cm strips to use as the filling.
3. Divide and Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Divide the dough into small, equal pieces, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Stuff with Mozzarella: Flatten each piece of dough with your fingers and place a mozzarella stick in the center. Carefully fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the edges to seal. Roll it into a ball and set aside. Repeat this for all dough pieces.

Step 3: Assemble and Add Toppings

1. Place Dough Balls on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the mozzarella-stuffed dough balls on the sheet, leaving space between each one as they will expand during baking.
2. Top with Tomato Sauce: Spoon a small amount of thick pizza tomato sauce on top of each dough ball. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread the sauce.
3. Sprinkle with Mozzarella: Generously sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce-covered dough balls.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza Bread

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
2. Check for Doneness: The pizza bread is ready when the dough is cooked through and the cheese is nicely browned.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve Hot: Remove the pizza bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra tomato sauce on the side for dipping.
2. Enjoy: The mozzarella inside should be gooey and melted, creating a deliciously cheesy surprise with every bite.

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Dough: For best results, make sure your dough is fresh and has properly risen. This ensures a fluffy, soft texture.
• Sealing the Dough: When wrapping the mozzarella stick in the dough, make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
• Cheese Substitutes: If you don’t have mozzarella sticks, you can use string cheese or cut a block of mozzarella into strips.
• Add Herbs: For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some dried oregano or Italian seasoning on top of the bread before baking.
• Crispy Crust: For a crispier crust, you can brush the dough with a little olive oil before adding the sauce and cheese.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Leftover pizza bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, place the pizza bread in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the bread may become softer.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed pizza bread before baking. To do this, assemble the stuffed dough balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw for about 30 minutes before following the baking instructions.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximation)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough to save time. Just divide and stuff the dough as directed in the recipe.

2. What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with other fillings such as cheddar cheese, pepperoni, or even cooked vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a different flavor.

3. How can I make the dough gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

4. Can I make this recipe without cheese?

If you prefer a non-cheesy version, you can omit the mozzarella sticks and top the dough with tomato sauce and herbs for a simple, flavorful bread.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough balls with the mozzarella stuffing ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Mozzarella-Stuffed Pizza Bread is an irresistible snack or appetizer that brings the best of pizza and freshly baked bread together. With its soft, flavorful dough and cheesy filling, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making it for a party or just to enjoy at home, the combination of gooey mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and a soft, golden crust will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade pizza bread!