Cheese Bread

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Introduction:
Cheese Bread is a warm, savory delight that’s perfect for snacking, as an appetizer, or as a side to your favorite meals. This bread is loaded with gooey, melted cheese, creating a deliciously cheesy experience in every bite. With its golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, it’s an irresistible treat that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients (For a 1 Loaf):

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast:
  • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  1. Mix the Ingredients:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  1. Knead the Dough:
  • Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
  1. Add Cheese:
  • Gently fold in the shredded cheese (and garlic powder, if using) until well incorporated into the dough.

Let the Dough Rise:

  1. First Rise:
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape and Bake:

  1. Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  1. Shape the Dough:
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough into the prepared loaf pan.
  1. Second Rise:
  • Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it’s puffy.
  1. Bake:
  • Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  1. Cool:
    • Let the cheese bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

  • Cheese choices: Feel free to mix and match cheeses for different flavors! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta or gouda work well.
  • Add-ins: You can also incorporate cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or herbs into the dough for added flavor.
  • Serve warm: Cheese bread is best enjoyed warm, but you can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to refresh it.

Recommendation:

Serve Cheese Bread as a delicious side to soups or salads, or enjoy it on its own as a cheesy snack. It’s great for sharing at gatherings, and its comforting flavors are sure to please everyone!

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