Cheese bread is a delightful treat with a savory, cheesy flavor and a soft, often slightly crispy texture. There are many variations, but here are a couple of popular ones:
1. Classic Cheese Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm milk and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Add Cheese: Punch down the dough and knead in the shredded cheese.
- Shape: Form the dough into a loaf or divide it into rolls, and place on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
2. Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (parmesan or a mix of cheeses)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease mini muffin tins or silicone molds.
- Heat Milk & Oil: In a saucepan, heat milk and oil until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine tapioca flour and salt.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the flour while stirring. Let it cool slightly.
- Add Cheese and Eggs: Stir in the shredded cheese, then beat in the eggs until smooth.
- Fill Molds: Pour the batter into the prepared molds, filling them about ¾ full.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Both versions are sure to be a hit, whether you’re looking for a hearty, cheesy loaf or delightful cheesy bites. Enjoy your baking!