Panera Bread Bowl Recipe

Oh how I love me a warm bread bowl filled with my favorite, creamy soup!

A good dough is the foundation of the Panera Bread recipe, and high-protein bread flour is the way to go for the right chew.

The key to a crisp outer shell is baking with steam—just toss some ice cubes in the oven to create that effect.

Cutting the top right makes a difference too—go at an angle so the lid acts as a perfect dipper for the soup inside.

Hollowing it out can be tricky, but a gentle hand keeps the walls thick enough to hold up to hot liquids.

Homemade versions are always fresher so you’re making the right call here!

How to Make Panera Bread Bowl

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Instant Yeast
• 3 cups Warm Water (110–115°F)
• 2 tbsp Sugar
• 2 tsp Salt
• 6 ½ to 7 ½ cups Bread Flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Start by mixing the yeast, warm water, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.

Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy.

Step 2:

Add salt and gradually stir in the bread flour until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

Step 3:

Place the dough in a greased bowl and turn it once to grease the top.

Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until doubled in size.

Step 4:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Punch down the dough, then divide it into evenly sized balls to form individual bread bowls.

Step 5:

Transfer the dough balls to a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden and crusty.

Once cooled slightly, cut the tops off and hollow out the center.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Control Water Temperature

Make sure the water is between 110 and 115°F to ensure the yeast activates properly.

Too hot, and it will kill the yeast, while too cold will slow the activation down.

Get the Right Flour Amount

Start with the lesser amount of flour and add more as needed.

This helps achieve the proper dough consistency without becoming too dense.

Customize Your Bread Size

Feel free to adjust the size of the dough balls based on the soup or dip volume you plan to serve.

Smaller bowls work well for appetizers, while larger ones are great for hearty soups.

Use Leftover Bread Wisely

Consider making croutons with the bread extracted from the center.

Simply cube the bread, then toss in your favorite seasonings and bake for a crunchy topping.

Perfect Rising Environment

If it’s a chilly day, create an ideal environment by placing the dough near a warm oven or a heated stovetop.

Sometimes, a slightly warmed, turned-off oven can do the trick for quick rising!

What to Serve with Panera Bread Bowl Recipe

Classic Soups

You can’t go wrong with a creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in your bread bowl; it’s a timeless option that pairs wonderfully with the rustic bread texture.

Alternatively, go for the Creamy Tomato Soup which brings a nice tanginess that complements the soft, pillowy inside of your bread bowl.

Fresh Salads

A refreshing Caesar Salad is a great choice, adding some crunch and a zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the bread.

Try a Mixed Greens Salad with a light vinaigrette for a crisp contrast to the warm, soft texture of the bread.

Mediterranean Twist

If you’re looking for something different, consider serving a Mediterranean Tabbouleh.

The fresh herbs and citrusy dressing add a bright, vibrant note that can brighten up your meal.

Hearty Chili

For a more robust option, try ladling a hearty Chili into your bread bowl.

The rich, meaty flavors will soak into the bread, creating a deliciousness you’ll be craving later!

Unique Sides

Roasted Sweet Potatoes bring a sweet and savory balance that uniquely complements the earthiness of the bread.

A Warm Lentil Salad offers a protein-packed alternative with a touch of warmth and spiciness.

Variations and Substitutions

Flavored Bread Bowls

You can mix in Italian herbs like oregano or basil for a touch of Mediterranean flavor.

A sprinkle of grated cheese like Parmesan on top before baking adds a cheesy twist to the crust.

Healthier Alternatives

For a healthier option, try using whole wheat flour.

You can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour without sacrificing texture.

Ground flaxseed is also an excellent substitute for some of the oil—use 3 parts flaxseed to 1 part oil.

Gluten-Free Options

For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

Brands like Bob’s Red Mill offer blends that work well for bread recipes.

Adjust baking time slightly as gluten-free dough can behave differently.

How to Store Leftover Panera Bread Bowl

Keep it Fresh in the Refrigerator

If you plan to consume the bread bowl within a day or two, placing it in the fridge is a great choice.

Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

This helps prevent the bread from becoming stale too quickly.

Consider Freezing for Longer Storage

For longer storage, you can freeze the bread bowl to maintain its quality.

Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.

This double layer of protection helps keep the bread bowl fresh for up to three months.

Separate Soups or Fillings

When storing, keep any soup or fillings separate from the bread bowl.

Transfer liquids to a tightly sealed container to avoid sogginess.

This ensures both the bread and the fillings retain their best textures for when you’re ready to use them again!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Dough Consistency

You might think the dough looks great, but double-checking is key!

It’s all too easy to end up with overly sticky or too dry dough.

Aim for a smooth, elastic texture that doesn’t cling to your fingers.

Skipping the Resting Time

Do you sometimes feel rushed and ready to skip the resting period?

Avoid this urge, as the resulting bread bowls will suffer in quality.

Allowing dough time to rest and rise can make a world of difference!

Not Using the Right Flour

Ever tried a different flour and found the texture off?

Sticking to bread flour is essential for achieving that chewy, sturdy bowl.

Experimenting can be fun, but for reliability, bread flour is your best bet!