Cheesy tomato braided bread is a soft and fluffy bread filled with rich tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and crumbled feta cheese, all woven into a beautiful braid. With a golden crust and savory flavors, this bread is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistibly cheesy – A combination of mozzarella and feta creates a gooey, savory bite.
Soft and fluffy texture – The perfectly kneaded dough ensures a light and airy bread.
Rich tomato flavor – The tomato sauce adds a tangy contrast to the creamy cheese.
Beautifully braided presentation – Looks impressive but is easy to make.
Perfect for any occasion – Great for brunch, parties, or as a side for soups and salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

all-purpose flour
active dry yeast
warm milk
sugar
salt
unsalted butter, melted
egg

For the Filling:

tomato sauce
shredded mozzarella cheese
crumbled feta cheese
dried oregano
garlic powder

Directions

In a bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, salt, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Roll out the dough into a large rectangle.
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface, then sprinkle mozzarella, feta cheese, oregano, and garlic powder on top.
Roll the dough into a log from the long edge, then slice it lengthwise down the middle.
Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides up.
Place the twisted dough into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices

Variations

Spicy Cheesy Bread – Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for extra heat.
Pesto Twist – Replace the tomato sauce with basil pesto for a different flavor.
Whole Wheat Version – Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Extra Cheesy Bread – Mix in Parmesan or cheddar for an even richer cheese flavor.
Garlic Butter Topping – Brush the top with garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes to refresh its texture.

FAQs

What is braided bread?

Braided bread is a type of yeast bread where the dough is twisted into an intricate shape, often with layers of filling.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works as a time-saving alternative, but homemade dough gives the best texture.

What type of cheese works best for this bread?

Mozzarella provides a stretchy melt, while feta adds a salty, tangy flavor. You can also mix in Parmesan or cheddar.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

How do I make the crust extra golden and crispy?

Brush the top with an egg wash before baking for a glossy finish.

Can I prepare this bread in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the braided loaf, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it fresh the next day.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Use a thick tomato sauce to prevent excess moisture from soaking into the dough.

Can I make mini braided rolls instead of one large loaf?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and braid individual rolls for a fun twist.

What pairs well with this bread?

It goes well with soups, salads, or as a side to pasta dishes.

How do I prevent the bread from overbrowning?

If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

Cheesy tomato braided bread is a delicious and visually stunning addition to any meal. With its soft, fluffy texture and flavorful cheese-tomato filling, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated, it remains a comforting, savory treat that is sure to impress. Try different variations and enjoy homemade bread at its best!

Cheesy Tomato Braided Bread