Ingredients
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F) with sugar and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Stir with a wooden spoon until combined into a dough.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the bread: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans.
- Second rise: Cover the pans with a towel and let the dough rise again for about 30–45 minutes, or until they have risen to the top of the pans.
- Add cheese: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the dough, pressing it slightly into the surface.
- Bake: Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes in the pans, then remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
Serve slices of warm, cheesy bread for a delicious addition to any meal or as a snack!