Cheese Bread Recipe
If you’re craving something warm, fluffy, and impossibly cheesy, you’re in the right place: Cheese Bread is a true comfort food superstar! Every slice boasts golden, crispy edges and a soft, delicate crumb swirled with sharp cheddar and savory seasonings. Whether served with dinner, as a snack, or on a brunch platter, this irresistible bread always disappears fast. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the best aromas, and your table with smiles—let’s make Cheese Bread!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients are the secret to achieving that perfect Cheese Bread—each one adds its own unique touch, from the richness of butter to the tangy punch of cheddar. Gather your favorites, and I’ll show you how they all work together for a marvelous loaf!
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of our bread, all-purpose flour keeps the loaf tender and helps create a lovely crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Just a hint wakes up the yeast and balances the savory flavors—don’t skip it!
- Active dry yeast: This magical ingredient gives your Cheese Bread its rise and signature fluffiness.
- Salt: Enhances every cheesy, savory note in the bread.
- Warm milk (110°F): Provides a rich, soft base and activates the yeast for a perfect lift.
- Unsalted butter (melted): For decadent flavor and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Large egg: Adds richness, helps with binding, and gives the loaf its beautiful golden hue.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided): The star of the show—use plenty for gooey pockets and a glorious cheesy crown!
- Garlic powder: Infuses the loaf with subtle warmth and depth.
- Dried oregano: Adds a pop of herbal brightness that makes the cheese sing.
- Black pepper: For just the right touch of gentle heat and savory complexity.
How to Make Cheese Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
To kick things off, blend your warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a foamy top, which means your yeast is awake and ready to go. This simple step is vital—it sets the foundation for your light, fluffy Cheese Bread.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper. This step ensures the seasonings are evenly distributed, giving every mouthful a gentle kick of flavor. It also helps the cheese stand out once you fold it in!
Step 3: Bring the Dough Together
Add the melted butter, large egg, and your foamy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough starts to form—it’ll look a little messy at first, but don’t worry! The mix will come together beautifully during kneading.
Step 4: Knead for Texture
Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 6 to 8 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth, elastic dough that bounces back when poked. This step works the gluten and creates the chewy-yet-airy bite we love in Cheese Bread.
Step 5: First Rise
Drop your dough ball into a greased bowl, cover it snugly, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size. This restful period is when your Cheese Bread builds flavor—and anticipation!
Step 6: Cheese Time!
Punch the dough down gently (so satisfying), then knead in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar. Don’t worry if some bits poke out—the more cheesy swirls, the better. This step guarantees a melty surprise in every bite!
Step 7: Shape and Second Rise
Form your dough into a loaf shape and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes; this second proof creates a feather-light texture and ensures the bread rises beautifully in the oven.
Step 8: Topping and Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top of the risen loaf. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until it’s deeply golden and sounds hollow when tapped. The scent of bubbling cheese and fresh bread is irresistible!
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Let your Cheese Bread cool slightly before slicing—if you can resist! This helps set the cheese and ensures perfect slices. Serve warm for the ultimate gooey-cheesy experience.
How to Serve Cheese Bread
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, try brushing the top with garlic butter as soon as it comes out of the oven. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra grated cheddar looks gorgeous and adds extra flavor to your Cheese Bread.
Side Dishes
Cheese Bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups, fresh salads, pasta dishes, and barbecue fare. It’s especially dreamy alongside chili, tomato soup, or even scrambled eggs for breakfast. Let it soak up all those delicious sauces!
Creative Ways to Present
Slice Cheese Bread thick and toast it for epic sandwiches, or cube it for croutons in a salad. You can also make mini-loaves for gifting—just divide the dough and adjust baking time. For parties, offer a bread basket filled with Cheese Bread bites and a trio of spreads!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your cooled Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container; it will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days. The cheese keeps the loaf moist—but if you live in a humid area, fridge storage is a smart bet!
Freezing
Want to bake ahead? You can freeze Cheese Bread with fantastic results. Simply wrap slices or the whole loaf in foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It keeps well for up to three months—great for future cravings or last-minute guests!
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked magic, reheat Cheese Bread slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F for 5–10 minutes. This crisps up the edges and melts the cheese all over again, giving you that “just baked” taste anytime.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Bread
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives classic flavor, Cheese Bread is delicious with mozzarella, pepper jack, gouda, or a blend. Feel free to get creative and use what you love (or what’s in your fridge).
What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
No loaf pan? No problem! You can shape the dough into a round boule and bake it on a lined baking sheet. Just watch the baking time—it might cook a bit faster, so check for that golden brown color.
Can I add extra herbs or spices?
Definitely! While this recipe adds garlic and oregano, you can mix in fresh chives, thyme, basil, or even a pinch of paprika for deeper flavor. Cheese Bread loves a little customization.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Look for a deep golden crust and a loaf that sounds hollow when you tap it. If you’re unsure, insert a thermometer—your Cheese Bread is perfect at around 190°F at the center.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads. Results may vary in texture, but with plenty of cheese, your bread will still be comforting and tasty!
Final Thoughts
Whether for a cozy meal or a special occasion, Cheese Bread is guaranteed to win hearts and satisfy big cravings. Give it a try—your family and friends will thank you (and you might just find yourself making it again and again)!
Print
Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese Bread recipe combines the savory goodness of sharp cheddar cheese with a soft, fluffy homemade bread loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish, this cheesy bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, garlic powder, oregano, and pepper. Add melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Rise Dough: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
- Add Cheese: Punch down dough, knead in 1 1/2 cups cheese. Shape into a loaf and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Sprinkle remaining cheese on dough. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
- This bread is best served warm with butter.
- You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for variety.
- For extra flavor, brush the top with garlic butter before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
