Cheese Bread
Cheese bread is a warm, soft, and savory delight that brings together the goodness of freshly baked bread with rich, gooey melted cheese. The bread is tender, slightly crispy on the edges, and packed with flavorful cheese throughout. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or even for sandwiches, this Cheese Bread recipe is sure to become a family favorite.It’s simple to prepare, customizable with various cheese options, and versatile for different occasions.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 loaf pan (8x4 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 8x4 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
Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.
A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella offers a good balance of flavor and meltiness.
- 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.