Cheese Bread: A Comforting Delight
If you love the rich taste of cheese combined with
the warmth of freshly baked bread, then this Cheese Bread recipe is perfect for
you. It's simple to prepare, versatile, and ideal for breakfast, snacks, or
even as a side dish for soups and salads. Packed with cheesy goodness, this
recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details with a
step-by-step guide.
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1 egg (beaten, optional for richness)
For the Cheese
Filling:
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, for brushing)
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
Step-by-Step
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the
Dough
1.
In a large mixing
bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2.
Gradually add warm
milk and mix until a rough dough forms.
3.
Add the softened
butter and knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth
and elastic.
4.
Place the dough in a
lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a
warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the
Cheese Filling
1.
In a medium bowl,
combine the shredded cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper.
2.
Mix well to
distribute the seasoning evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the
Cheese Bread
1.
Once the dough has
risen, punch it down gently to release the air.
2.
Roll out the dough
on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
3.
Spread the cheese
filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4.
Roll the dough
tightly into a log, starting from one of the longer sides.
5.
Pinch the seam and
ends to seal, then place the rolled dough onto a greased or parchment-lined
baking sheet.
Step 4: Second Rise
1.
Cover the assembled
bread with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
2.
Preheat your oven to
375°F (190°C) while the bread rises.
Step 5: Bake the
Cheese Bread
1.
Brush the top of the
bread with melted butter for a golden crust.
2.
Sprinkle sesame
seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture, if desired.
3.
Bake the bread in
the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4.
Remove the bread
from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Step 6: Serve and
Enjoy
1.
Slice the Cheese
Bread and serve it warm for the best experience.
2.
Pair it with a bowl
of soup, a fresh salad, or simply enjoy it on its own.
Tips for Perfect
Cheese Bread
1.
Cheese Choice: Use a mix of cheeses for a more dynamic flavor. Cheddar adds sharpness,
while mozzarella provides a gooey texture.
2.
Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, or
chili flakes to customize the flavor.
3.
Make it Ahead: Prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise in the refrigerator
overnight for a deeper flavor.
4.
Shaping Variations: Try shaping the bread into a braided loaf or individual rolls for a
different presentation.
5.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to
2 days, or freeze for longer storage.