Cheesy Bread Recipe

Introduction

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. And when you add a generous amount of gooey, melted cheese to the mix, you have a winning combination that is hard to resist. This Cheesy Bread recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a delicious accompaniment to any meal. With its crispy crust and oozing cheese, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the bread:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the cheese filling:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 cup melted butter

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix well. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the cheese filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well to ensure the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the bread

Punch down the risen dough and transfer it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick.

Sprinkle the cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.

Place the rolled dough onto a greased baking sheet, seam side down.

Step 4: Bake the bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Brush the melted butter over the top of the bread, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations

This Cheesy Bread recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some variations you can try:

Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese filling for a smoky twist.
Replace the mozzarella cheese with cheddar or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or dried chili flakes on top for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill for a unique taste.

Tips

Make sure the water used to activate the yeast is warm, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
If you prefer a softer crust, brush the top of the bread with melted butter immediately after removing it from the oven.
For a faster rise, place the dough in a warm oven (turned off) or cover it with a damp cloth and place it in a warm spot.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses to create your own unique flavor combination.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Bread recipe is a delightful treat that combines the goodness of freshly baked bread with the irresistible allure of melted cheese. It’s a perfect side dish for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this cheesy delight!

FAQs

1. Can I make this bread in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and assemble the bread in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the bread to come to room temperature before proceeding with the baking instructions.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This Cheesy Bread freezes well. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature and reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that using whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture and slightly different taste.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the cheese filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other ingredients to the cheese filling. Some popular additions include sautéed onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped olives.

5. Can I use a bread machine to make this bread?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to prepare the dough. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and kneading the dough. Once the dough is ready, proceed with the assembling and baking steps outlined in this recipe.