This cheese-filled bread recipe is a true indulgence for cheese lovers and bread enthusiasts alike. Soft and fluffy dough envelops a generous filling of your favorite cheese, creating a gooey, melted center that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a savory snack, this bread is perfect for any occasion. The golden, buttery finish and the irresistible cheese filling make this bread an instant hit. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
- Baking time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 teaspoon yeast (4 g)
- 1.5 cups warm water (300 ml)
- 5 cups all-purpose flour (540 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
For Greasing the Dough:
- 160 g butter
For the Filling:
- Cheese (of your choice, for the inner material)
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for a few minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling 5. Grate or slice your preferred cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses) for the filling. Set aside.
Step 3: Assembling the Bread 6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and divide it into equal portions. 7. Flatten each portion into a circle or rectangle shape, depending on your preference. 8. Place a generous amount of cheese in the center of each dough portion. 9. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese to completely enclose it. Pinch the seams to seal the dough, ensuring the cheese stays inside.
Step 4: Baking the Bread 10. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). 11. Arrange the filled dough portions on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each portion for expansion. 12. Melt the butter and brush it over the tops of the filled dough portions for a rich, golden finish. 13. Beat the egg yolk and brush it over the buttered dough to create a beautiful, shiny crust. 14. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy 15. Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. 16. Serve the cheese-filled bread warm, either on its own or as a side to your favorite meal.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: This cheese-filled bread makes a perfect snack to enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- With Soup or Salad: Serve as a side dish with your favorite soup or salad for a complete meal.
- Appetizer for Parties: These bread portions are ideal as bite-sized appetizers for gatherings or parties.
- As a Sandwich: Slice the bread open and fill it with additional toppings for a delicious sandwich.
Cooking Tips
- Choose Your Cheese Wisely: Opt for cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina, for a gooey filling.
- Resting the Dough: Don’t rush the dough’s rising process. Letting it rise properly results in soft, fluffy bread.
- Sealing the Dough: Make sure to pinch the dough tightly around the cheese to prevent any leakage during baking.
- Serving Fresh: This bread is best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is still gooey and warm.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, cheese also provides essential vitamins like vitamin A and B12.
- Flour: A great source of carbohydrates, flour provides energy for your body.
- Butter: Rich in fats, butter adds flavor and contributes to the texture of the bread.
- Yeast: Yeast helps the bread rise and contributes to the production of B vitamins.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy and eggs.
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be adapted to gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheese-filled bread is everything you want in comfort food—fluffy, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it as a snack. The golden crust, melty cheese, and soft dough combine into a mouthwatering treat that will make everyone come back for more!
Conclusion
Cheese-filled bread is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines the best of both worlds: soft, fluffy bread and gooey, melted cheese. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling in advance, then store them in the fridge overnight. Assemble and bake the bread the next day. -
What if I don’t have fresh yeast?
You can use active dry yeast instead of fresh yeast. Simply activate it in warm water with a little sugar before mixing it into the flour. -
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight and proceed with the recipe when you’re ready to bake. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as gouda, fontina, or even cream cheese for a different texture. -
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add some chili flakes or jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick. -
Can I make this bread without butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil or another plant-based fat for a dairy-free version. -
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while baking?
Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough tightly around the cheese to seal it. -
Can I make mini-sized versions of this bread?
Absolutely! Divide the dough into smaller portions and bake individual mini cheese-filled breads. -
How should I store leftover bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness. -
Can I add other fillings to the bread?
Yes, you can add other fillings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or meats like ham or sausage for more variety.