Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Bread Recipe
When you try this cottage cheese bread recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s become one of my favorites. The flavor is rich and savory, thanks to the combination of chives and oregano.
I love how the cottage cheese adds moistness and a unique texture that keeps every bite delightful. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a busy weekend.
Watching it rise and transform into golden perfection in the oven is truly satisfying. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or as a sandwich base, this bread is simply irresistible and sure to impress anyone who tries it!
Ingredients of Cottage Cheese Bread
When it comes to baking bread, the right ingredients can make all the difference. This cottage cheese bread recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. You’ll need some staples that you probably already have in your pantry, plus a few special touches that elevate this loaf from ordinary to extraordinary.
So, let’s gather everything we need to make this delicious bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 ounce dry active yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons chives, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup cottage cheese, small curd
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 -3 cups flour, sifted
Now, let’s talk about some of these ingredients. The cottage cheese is a star player here; it adds moisture and a slight tang that makes every bite so enjoyable.
If you’re like me and sometimes forget to take your butter and cottage cheese out in advance to soften, don’t worry. You can always give them a quick zap in the microwave—just be careful not to turn them into a melty mess.
The chives and oregano bring a savory twist that makes this bread more than just a sidekick to your meals. You can even experiment with other herbs if you’re feeling adventurous.
Just remember, the key is to have fun while baking!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bread
Making cottage cheese bread is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. First things first, let’s get that 1/4 ounce of dry active yeast all cozy in 1/4 cup of warm water. You want the water to be warm enough to wake the yeast up, but not so hot that it gives it a shock—think bathwater temperature. Let this sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s all frothy and bubbly, a sure sign that your yeast is ready to party.
While you’re waiting, gather the other ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of small curd cottage cheese, 1 tablespoon of softened butter, and 1 egg. Make sure those guys are at room temperature; trust me, it makes a difference. Mix them all together until they’re well blended.
Then, toss in 2 teaspoons of minced chives, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Now, let’s bring back that yeast mixture—add it to your bowl and give it a good stir. It’s starting to look like bread, isn’t it?
Now comes the fun part: flour! Gradually add 2 to 3 cups of sifted flour to the mixture. You want to keep adding until the dough is firm but not too sticky. Once you’ve got your dough together, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens.
Once it’s risen, punch it down (yes, really!) and transfer it to a well-buttered 1 ½ quart casserole dish. Let it rise again for 30 minutes—perfect time for a quick coffee break or to contemplate the meaning of life, or maybe just the best way to slather butter on your freshly baked bread.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and bake for about 40 minutes. When it’s golden brown and smells like heaven, pull it out, brush it with some melted butter, sprinkle on coarse salt, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure comfort.
Cottage Cheese Bread Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your cottage cheese bread, there are plenty of tasty substitutions and variations you can try.
For a different flavor, swap out chives for fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. You could also use a flavored cottage cheese, like garlic or onion, to enhance the taste.
If you want a healthier option, replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or even oat flour.
For a sweet twist, add in some raisins or chopped nuts.
Experimenting is half the fun, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your cottage cheese bread turns out perfectly, I recommend paying close attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Room temperature butter, cheese, and egg help the dough rise effectively.
Don’t rush the rising times; allowing the dough to double in size is essential for a light texture. If you want a more herby flavor, feel free to experiment with different herbs or add garlic for an extra kick.
Ultimately, brushing the bread with butter right after baking enhances its flavor and gives it a beautiful sheen. Enjoy your warm, delicious cottage cheese bread with your favorite spread!