Cheese bread is a savory, irresistible treat that combines the comfort of freshly baked bread with the rich, gooey goodness of melted cheese.
Whether served as a side dish to your main meal, enjoyed as a snack, or even used as the base for a hearty sandwich, this Cheese Bread recipe is sure to impress.
It’s warm, soft, and filled with cheesy goodness in every bite—making it the perfect addition to any occasion.
The simplicity of this recipe paired with its bold, cheesy flavor makes it a must-try for any bread and cheese lover!
Why You’ll Love This Cheese Bread Recipe
This Cheese Bread is everything you want in a savory bread.
The combination of the soft, fluffy bread dough and the melted cheese creates a comforting, satisfying bite every time.
Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
- Perfectly Cheesy: The bread is loaded with your favorite cheese, ensuring every slice is packed with flavor.
- Soft & Fluffy Texture: The dough is soft, tender, and melts in your mouth, while the cheese adds a nice, slightly crispy edge.
- Versatile & Customizable: You can make this bread your own by experimenting with different cheese varieties or adding in extra flavors like garlic, herbs, or even jalapeños.
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and doesn’t require any advanced baking skills, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering, serving it as a side, or simply enjoying it as a snack, this cheese bread is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Cheese Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- All-purpose flour – The base for the dough.
- Yeast – To help the dough rise and give it that fluffy texture.
- Sugar – A small amount to activate the yeast and add subtle sweetness to the bread.
- Salt – For seasoning and to balance the flavors.
- Butter – Adds richness and a soft texture to the bread.
- Warm milk – To help activate the yeast and create a tender crumb.
- Shredded cheese – The star ingredient! Cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorites work best.
- Egg – To enrich the dough and give the bread a beautiful golden color.
- Olive oil – For greasing the pan and adding a bit of flavor.
- Optional add-ins – Garlic, fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), or even some red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
How to Make Cheese Bread (Step-by-Step Guide)
Making Cheese Bread is simple and satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bake the perfect loaf:
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
In a separate bowl, mix 1 packet of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm milk (around 110°F) and allow it to activate for about 5 minutes.
Once the yeast is bubbly, pour it into the dry ingredients and stir. Add 1/4 cup of melted butter and 1 egg to the mixture.
Stir until the dough begins to come together.
Step 2 – Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Add extra flour if the dough feels too sticky. This step helps develop the gluten, giving the bread its soft and airy texture.
Step 3 – Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4 – Add the Cheese
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove any air bubbles.
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese of your choice.
If you want to add garlic, herbs, or spices, now is the time to mix them into the dough.
Step 5 – Shape and Bake
Transfer the dough to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle some more shredded cheese on top of the bread during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 6 – Cool and Serve
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
This cooling period helps the bread set, making it easier to cut. Serve warm with butter, or as a side to your favorite meal!
Tips for the Best Cheese Bread
- Choose Quality Cheese: Use a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella for meltiness and sharp cheddar for flavor.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead just enough to form a smooth dough. Overkneading can result in dense bread.
- Watch the Rising Time: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free spot. If the kitchen is cold, you can place the bowl in an oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For added flavor, incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough before baking.
- Make It Spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick to your cheese bread.
How to Store Cheese Bread
To keep your Cheese Bread fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you want to store it longer, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. However, the bread may lose some of its softness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven to refresh the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Bread is a savory and irresistible treat that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a stand-alone snack.
With its soft, cheesy interior and golden crust, it’s perfect for every occasion.
It’s a simple recipe that anyone can master, and the versatility in the cheese options and added flavors makes it a great go-to bread for any time of year.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this cheese bread will impress everyone at the table.
Give it a try, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can! If you have a bread machine, you can use it to knead and rise the dough.
Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for basic bread dough, and add the cheese after the first rise.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, but cheeses that melt well, like mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda, are the best for this bread.
You can also combine multiple cheeses for added flavor.
3. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it turns golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
You can also insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
4. Can I make this cheese bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it overnight.
Let it come to room temperature before shaping, rising, and baking the next day.
5. Can I freeze this cheese bread?
Yes, cheese bread freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
To reheat, allow it to thaw completely and warm it in the oven to restore its freshness.
Cheese Bread
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 loaf pan (8×4 inches)
- 1 spatula or spoon
- 1 Clean kitchen towel
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
- 1 cup warm milk 110°F
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix
Optional: Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme), garlic, or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 packet of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 large egg. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm, draft-free place or until it doubles in size.
- Add Cheese: Punch the dough down and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese (and optional add-ins like garlic or herbs).
- Shape the Dough: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased 8×4 inch loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Herbs and Add-ins: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or garlic can add an extra layer of flavor to the bread.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it could make the bread dense.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight for an easier, quicker bake the next day.
