Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe captures the sweet-savory charm of the original using simple ingredients like bread flour, olive oil, tomato paste, and dried basil. This copycat Panera version rises beautifully in a loaf pan, and when you brush the top with brown sugar and spices, it delivers that signature panera style crust in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

You’ll love this Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe for its bold flavor, simple process, and the way it brings a bakery-quality loaf into your own kitchen. With pantry staples like active dry yeast, warm water, and tomato paste, this copycat Panera version captures everything you enjoy about the original—especially when you brush the top with a blend of brown sugar and spices for that signature crust. Whether baked in a loaf pan or on a baking sheet, it’s a versatile recipe that works for sandwiches, toast, or eaten warm on its own. It’s a standout among bread recipes, thanks to its balance of sweet, savory, and herby notes.

Why you’ll love it:

Packed with rich tomato flavor and the aromatic lift of dried basil and garlic.
Perfectly sweetened crust made from brown sugar, honey, and olive oil.
Easy to customize with additions like chopped sun dried tomatoes or cheese.
Ready to bake after a simple rise, with just 30 minutes in the oven.

Ingredients for Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

This Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to recreate the rich flavor and soft texture of the original. Whether you choose bread flour for a higher protein content or stick with all-purpose flour, the result is a tender, flavorful loaf with a golden crust. The sweet topping, brushed over the dough before baking, gives it that unmistakable Panera style finish. You can bake it in a loaf pan for sandwich slices or on a baking sheet for a rustic shape. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

400g (3 cups) all-purpose or bread flour
212g (¾ cup + 3 tbsp) warm water
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
1¼ tsp sea salt
1 tbsp sugar or golden syrup
3 tbsp tomato paste
1½ tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped (or ½ tbsp dried basil)
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder

For the Sweet Topping:

1 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 tsp all-purpose flour
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp salt
½ tbsp olive oil
1 tsp honey
½ tsp water (if needed to thin for brushing)

Optional additions like chopped sun dried tomatoes can be kneaded into the dough for added flavor and texture. Prepare a small bowl for mixing your topping, and you’re ready to begin.

How to Make Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

Making this Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe at home is a straightforward process that yields a fragrant, richly flavored loaf with a soft crumb and a sweet-savory crust. This copycat Panera bread follows a simple rise-and-bake method that even beginner bakers can manage. Whether you’re using all-purpose or bread flour for higher protein content, the dough comes together easily with warm water, active dry yeast, and pantry staples. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving that signature panera style flavor and texture:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar (or golden syrup). Sprinkle in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the surface becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour (all-purpose or bread flour), sea salt, garlic powder, chili flakes, and dried basil or finely chopped fresh basil. Add the tomato paste, olive oil, and the activated yeast mixture. Stir to form a shaggy dough, then knead by hand or in a stand mixer for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size—usually about 60 to 75 minutes.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. You can place it in a greased loaf pan for a classic sandwich shape or shape it by hand and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet for a rustic look. If adding chopped sun dried tomatoes, knead them in at this stage.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, olive oil, honey, and just enough water to create a spreadable consistency. This mixture will give your loaf that familiar panera tomato basil bread finish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Let the shaped dough rise again for 30 minutes, loosely covered, until slightly puffy.

Step 7: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough generously with the sweet topping mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan or on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice once completely cooled, or enjoy warm if using immediately.

This tomato basil bread recipe delivers a bakery-style result, capturing the essence of Panera’s popular loaf with the added joy of homemade freshness.

Tips for Success

To get the best results from your Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe, a few key techniques can make all the difference. Whether you’re using bread flour for higher protein content or sticking with purpose flour for a softer crumb, attention to detail helps recreate that panera style finish. Follow these tips to ensure your loaf rises beautifully, bakes evenly, and delivers full flavor in every slice.

Use warm water, not hot – The temperature should be between 100°F and 110°F to activate the yeast properly. Too hot, and you risk killing it before it starts.
Let the dough rise fully – Give it enough time in a warm spot to double in size. Rushing this step leads to a dense texture, unlike the light crumb found in copycat Panera loaves.
Knead thoroughly – Whether by hand or stand mixer, kneading helps develop gluten structure, especially important if using bread flour to boost protein content.
Don’t skip the topping – The mix of brown sugar, flour, honey, and spices creates that signature crust. Make sure to brush the top just before baking.
Bake on the center rack – Whether using a loaf pan or baking sheet, placing your bread in the center of the oven helps ensure even baking from all sides.
Add-ins matter – For extra flavor, fold in finely chopped sun dried tomatoes before shaping the dough. They blend beautifully with the basil and tomato paste base.
Use a small bowl for precision mixing – Whether you’re prepping your topping or hydrating the yeast, a small bowl keeps ingredients controlled and evenly mixed.
Cool completely before slicing – Cutting too soon can collapse the crumb. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack for best texture.

These simple tips help turn this tomato basil bread recipe into a reliable go-to for anyone looking to bake a homemade version of Panera tomato basil bread with confidence and consistency.

Equipment Needed for Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

Making this Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe at home doesn’t require professional tools—just a few basic kitchen essentials to create that soft, flavorful loaf with its signature sweet crust. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic shape on a baking sheet or a structured loaf from a pan, having the right equipment helps ensure your copycat Panera bread turns out beautifully every time.

Large mixing bowl – For combining your dough ingredients and allowing space for kneading and rising.
Small bowl – Perfect for activating active dry yeast and mixing the brown sugar topping.
Loaf pan or baking sheet – Choose a loaf pan for a traditional sandwich shape or a baking sheet for a freeform rustic loaf.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters in bread recipes, especially when measuring dried basil, olive oil, or tomato paste.
Kitchen scale (optional) – Helpful for weighing ingredients like flour and water for consistent results and balanced protein content.
Spatula or wooden spoon – For initial mixing of the dough before kneading.
Pastry brush – Used to brush the top of the loaf with the brown sugar and honey glaze just before baking.
Wire rack – To cool the finished bread evenly and prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.

These simple tools support the texture, flavor, and presentation of your panera style loaf. With them, this tomato basil bread recipe becomes an easy, satisfying addition to your homemade bread collection.

Variations for Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

One of the best things about this Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe is how adaptable it is. While the original offers a balanced blend of tomato paste, olive oil, and dried basil, you can easily customize the dough to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re baking in a loaf pan or forming a rustic shape on a baking sheet, these variations let you make this copycat Panera loaf your own while keeping the integrity of classic panera style bread recipes.

Add chopped sun dried tomatoes
Mix finely chopped sun dried tomatoes into the dough before the final rise for a deeper, tangier tomato flavor. They pair beautifully with the basil and bring a richer texture to the crumb.
Use bread flour for a chewier texture
Switch from purpose flour to bread flour to increase protein content, resulting in a more structured, bakery-style chew.
Top with cheese before baking
After you brush the top with the brown sugar glaze, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top for a savory finish that melts into the sweet crust.
Make it spicy
Increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne to the dough for a subtle kick that enhances the tomato and basil.
Try different herbs
Substitute or blend dried basil with oregano or thyme for a slightly different herbal profile while staying true to the tomato basil bread recipe.
Mini loaves or rolls
Divide the dough and shape it into smaller portions. Bake in mini loaf pans or shape into rolls on a baking sheet. Adjust baking time to about 20–25 minutes.

With just a few simple changes, you can personalize this copycat Panera tomato basil bread to match your flavor preferences or pair it with a specific meal.

Serving Suggestions for Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

This Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe stands well on its own, but it also makes a versatile base for a variety of savory and satisfying pairings. With its soft interior, subtly sweet crust made with brown sugar, and rich tomato-herb flavor, this copycat Panera loaf complements everything from hearty soups to simple spreads. Whether you bake it in a loaf pan or shape it on a baking sheet, here are a few ways to serve it that bring out its full flavor and texture.

Grilled Sandwiches
Use thick slices to build toasted sandwiches with mozzarella, pesto, or roasted vegetables. The dried basil and tomato notes in the bread make an ideal match for Italian-style fillings.
Soup Companion
Serve alongside creamy tomato soup or minestrone. The bread’s bold flavor and soft crumb are perfect for dipping, especially when brushed with olive oil before toasting.
Toasted with Olive Oil and Garlic
Slice, toast, and lightly brush the top with olive oil and a pinch of garlic powder for a quick appetizer or side.
Breakfast or Brunch
Top with scrambled eggs, goat cheese, or avocado. The sweet crust made with honey and brown sugar provides a nice contrast to savory toppings.
Cheese Board Addition
Add small slices of the bread to a board featuring soft cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. The tomato basil bread recipe’s herby base balances out rich and salty accompaniments.

FAQs About Panera Bread Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

1. What are the ingredients in Panera tomato basil bread?
The classic Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe includes flour (typically all-purpose or bread flour), tomato paste, dried or finely chopped fresh basil, olive oil, garlic powder, and seasonings like salt and chili flakes. It’s sweetened slightly with sugar and topped with a glaze made from brown sugar, honey, flour, and cinnamon to give it that signature panera style crust. Active dry yeast and warm water help the dough rise, producing a soft, flavorful loaf.

2. What’s on the tomato basil BLT at Panera?
Panera’s tomato basil BLT is typically built on their signature tomato basil bread and features thick-cut bacon, crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and mayonnaise. The slightly sweet and herby bread enhances the savory and fresh elements of the sandwich, making it a popular menu item.

3. Is the tomato basil bread at Panera good?
Yes, the Panera tomato basil bread is widely loved for its soft interior, sweet-savory crust, and bold tomato flavor balanced by dried basil and olive oil. This combination makes it one of the most popular specialty bread recipes on their menu. The homemade copycat version offers the same qualities with the added benefit of fresh baking and customizable ingredients like chopped sun dried tomatoes.

4. What is in tomato basil bread?
Tomato basil bread typically includes flour (either purpose flour or bread flour for higher protein content), tomato paste for rich color and flavor, olive oil for moisture, garlic powder, and basil (dried or finely chopped fresh). Yeast and warm water are used to create a soft, risen dough, and it’s often finished with a sweet glaze made from brown sugar and spices, especially in panera style recipes.

Final Thoughts

This Panera Bread tomato basil bread recipe brings together the warm, herby aroma and subtle sweetness that fans of the original loaf know and love. With pantry staples like bread flour, tomato paste, olive oil, and dried basil, it delivers a satisfying homemade alternative to the bakery version. Whether you bake it in a loaf pan or shape it on a baking sheet, the result is a soft, flavorful bread with a panera style crust that comes together with just 30 minutes of baking time.