Why You’ll Love This Cheese Bread Recipe
When you take that first bite of this cheese bread, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The warm, cheesy goodness is simply irresistible!
It’s soft and fluffy, with a golden crust that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual snack, this bread always impresses.
Plus, it fills the house with an amazing aroma while baking, making it hard to resist before it even cools. I love how versatile it is, pairing beautifully with soups or just enjoyed on its own.
Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
Ingredients of Cheese Bread
When it comes to making cheese bread, the ingredients play an essential role in achieving that delightful taste and texture that we all crave. You don’t need anything fancy; just some basic staples that you might already have in your kitchen.
I’ll walk you through exactly what you’ll need to whip up this cheesy goodness. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready for a delicious adventure in baking!
Ingredients for Cheese Bread:
- 6 – 6 1/2 cups flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 4 1/2 teaspoons yeast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2/3 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg white, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Now, you might be wondering about the type of cheese to use. While cheddar is the star of this recipe, feel free to get a little creative.
Maybe you want to mix in some mozzarella for extra stretchiness or even a little pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous and like a kick of spice.
Also, keep in mind that the quality of your ingredients can really elevate your bread. Whole milk can add richness, and using fresh yeast will give your bread a lovely rise.
So, whether you grab the cheapest flour on the shelf or splurge on a fancy artisanal option, just remember that this is all about making something delicious and comforting.
And hey, if you mess up the measurements just a little, it might turn out even better than you expected—after all, baking is as much about experimenting as it’s about following the rules.
How to Make Cheese Bread
Making cheese bread is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with warmth and mouthwatering aromas. First, let’s get your mixing bowl ready. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1/3 cup of sugar, 4 1/2 teaspoons of yeast, and 1 tablespoon of salt. You might want to take a moment to appreciate how these simple ingredients are about to transform into something magical.
Now, heat 1 1/2 cups of water and 2/3 cup of milk until it’s very warm—think between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it reaches that cozy temperature, gradually pour it into your flour mixture. Your arms might get a little tired, but beat it all together for about two minutes at medium speed. Trust me; it’s worth the effort.
Next up, let’s bring in the star of the show: your 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Add that in along with an additional 1/2 cup of flour and beat it for another two minutes, this time at high speed. You’ll notice the dough starting to thicken and come together, and it’s a thing of beauty.
Now, here’s where the fun begins: stir in enough of the remaining flour until you’ve got a soft dough. It’s like a little workout; knead that dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Don’t be afraid to get your hands a bit messy; it’s part of the experience.
After that, cover your dough and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This is the perfect time to wash your hands, maybe sneak a piece of cheese (I won’t tell), and prepare for the next steps.
Once the dough has rested, divide it in half. Roll each half into an 8-inch round ball, and place them on greased baking sheets. Now, the waiting game begins. Cover those dough balls and let them rise until they double in size—this usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
When they’re ready, brush them with the egg white mixture (that’s 1 egg white beaten with 1 tablespoon of water), and make a couple of snazzy cuts on top with a sharp knife—about 2 inches long and a half-inch deep.
And here comes the best part: bake them at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until they’re golden brown and done. The moment you pull those loaves out of the oven, the real magic happens, and all your hard work pays off. Just try to resist the urge to plunge in right away; let them cool for a few moments. But when you do take that first bite, you’ll know it was all worth it.
Cheese Bread Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic cheese bread recipe, you might want to get creative with substitutions and variations to suit your taste or pantry.
For instance, try using different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor. If you’re out of milk, water works just fine.
Want a herb kick? Add chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough. You can even toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist!
To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Experimenting is half the fun, so don’t hesitate to play around until you find your perfect cheese bread!
Additional Tips & Notes
While you’re getting ready to bake your cheese bread, keep a few helpful tips in mind to guarantee the best results.
First, make sure your water and milk are at the right temperature—too hot can kill the yeast. I often add extra cheese to enhance the flavor; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Knead the dough well for that perfect texture. If the dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour.
Finally, let your loaves rise in a warm spot; this helps them double in size. Trust me, these small tweaks can make a big difference in your bread!