Cheese bread is a delightful baked treat that combines the rich flavor of cheese with the soft, airy texture of homemade bread. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or even a breakfast option, this cheesy bread is guaranteed to impress. With its golden crust and gooey, cheesy interior, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering cheese bread that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Stir everything together until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheese with garlic powder and dried oregano (if using). This will enhance the flavor of the cheese bread.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out into a rectangle or divide it into smaller portions if making individual cheese rolls.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the dough. If making a loaf, roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log. If making rolls, shape them accordingly.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising for the second time.
- Bake the Bread: Once the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cheese bread from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best taste experience.
This homemade cheese bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. It pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or simply on its own with a little butter. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is simple yet delivers incredible results. Try it today and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade cheese bread!