Cheese Bread Recipe
Introduction
Cheese Bread is a warm, cheesy, and comforting treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish for soups and salads. This easy-to-make recipe creates soft, fluffy bread with a golden, cheesy crust that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cheese Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Preparation Steps
1. Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Add Cheese:
- Punch down dough and roll into a rectangle.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and garlic powder evenly.
- Roll up the dough tightly, like a jelly roll.
5. Shape and Second Rise:
- Place dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
6. Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush top with melted butter and sprinkle extra cheese if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Bread
- Warm Milk: Ensure milk is warm but not hot to activate yeast.
- Soft Dough: Dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Even Cheese: Spread cheese evenly for consistent flavor.
- Golden Top: Brush with butter for a glossy finish.
Variations and Additions
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in rosemary or thyme.
- Extra Cheesy: Use mozzarella for added stretch.
Storage and Serving
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze sliced bread for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.)
- Calories: 220-250 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Final Thoughts
Cheese Bread is a crowd-pleasing, cheesy delight that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether served fresh from the oven or toasted with butter, it’s always a hit. Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses and add-ins for your perfect loaf!
Would you like more variations or gluten-free options? Let me know