I've been making this Cheese Bread for 20 years now, it has never failed me! Bread for breakfast

 

The Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe — 20 Years of Perfect Breakfast Bread

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Introduction

Cheese bread is one of those timeless, comforting recipes that never goes out of style. It combines the warm, soft texture of homemade bread with the rich, gooey flavor of melted cheese, making it a perfect breakfast treat or snack any time of day. Over the past two decades, I’ve refined this recipe into a foolproof, crowd-pleasing classic that has never failed to impress.

Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced home chef, this recipe will guide you step-by-step with detailed instructions, tips, and variations. We’ll cover everything from ingredient selection and mixing techniques to baking secrets, storage tips, and creative ways to enjoy your cheese bread.

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The History and Charm of Cheese Bread

Cheese bread’s roots are surprisingly diverse — many cultures have their own version, from Brazilian Pão de Queijo, which is made with tapioca flour and cheese, to French cheese breads and savory cheese rolls popular in American home baking.

What makes cheese bread universally loved is the combination of a crusty or soft loaf filled with the irresistible aroma and taste of melted cheese. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect to start the day with a boost of flavor and energy.

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Ingredients

Basic Ingredients for 1 Loaf (about 12 servings)

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute part with bread flour for extra chew)

• 2 teaspoons instant yeast

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar (helps yeast activation and subtle sweetness)

• 1 ½ cups warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 2 large eggs

• 2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar is classic, but a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan works beautifully)

• Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano, thyme) for extra flavor

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Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl or stand mixer with dough hook

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Loaf pan (9x5 inches)

• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel

• Oven thermometer (optional but helpful)

• Cooling rack

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate Yeast

If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour. However, for a more reliable rise, especially if your yeast is older, activate it first:

• Warm the milk to about 110°F (warm to the touch but not hot).

• Stir in the sugar and sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.

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Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and any optional spices.

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Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and melted butter. If you activated your yeast, add the foamy yeast mixture here. If using instant yeast directly, add warm milk instead.

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Step 4: Make the Dough

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry while stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.

Once combined, knead the dough:

• By hand: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

• Stand mixer: Knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.

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Step 5: Add the Cheese

Gently fold in about 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese into the dough, kneading just enough to distribute it evenly without overworking the dough.

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Step 6: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or towel, and let rise in a warm draft-free place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 7: Shape the Dough

After rising, gently punch down the dough to release gas. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf by flattening into a rectangle, folding edges inward, then rolling tightly.

Place the shaped loaf seam-side down into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.

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Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan loosely and let dough rise again for 30-45 minutes until it puffs up just above the pan’s rim.

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Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese evenly on top of the loaf for a bubbly, golden crust.

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Step 10: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

If you have an oven thermometer, make sure your oven holds a consistent temperature for the best results.

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Step 11: Cool

Remove from oven and transfer bread to a cooling rack. Let cool at least 20 minutes before slicing to prevent gumminess.

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Tips for Perfect Cheese Bread Every Time

• Cheese choice matters: Use good quality sharp cheddar for flavor depth. A combo of cheddar and mozzarella balances flavor and meltiness. Parmesan adds a nice nutty crust if sprinkled on top.

• Don’t skip kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten for a good crumb texture and allows cheese to incorporate without falling apart.

• Watch your liquid temperature: Too hot and you kill the yeast, too cold and it won’t activate well.

• Rising location: Find a warm spot (like inside your oven with the light on) to help dough rise consistently.

• Don’t overbake: Bread dries out quickly. Check at 30 minutes and remove when golden and hollow sounding.

• Add herbs or spices: Garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme can elevate the flavor.

• Brush with butter: After baking, brush the crust with melted butter for a soft, shiny finish.

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Variations and Add-ins

• Jalapeño Cheese Bread: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Bacon Cheese Bread: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.

• Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.

• Everything Bagel Cheese Bread: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.

• Cheese & Herb Swirl: Roll out dough, sprinkle cheese and herbs, roll up, and bake as a pull-apart loaf.

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How to Store Cheese Bread

• At room temperature: Store wrapped in foil or airtight bag for up to 2 days.

• Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to 5 days but bring to room temp before serving for best flavor.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and warm before serving.

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Serving Suggestions for Cheese Bread

• Serve slices warm with butter for breakfast.

• Pair with eggs and bacon or sausage for a hearty morning meal.

• Use as a sandwich base with deli meats and veggies.

• Slice and toast for a quick snack.

• Great alongside soups or chili as a comforting side.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dense bread: Likely due to under-kneading, old yeast, or cold liquids.

• Bread didn’t rise: Yeast may be expired or dough was too cold.

• Cheese sinks: Fold cheese in gently and don’t add too much liquid.

• Crust too hard: Brush with butter after baking or cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.

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Fun Facts About Cheese Bread

• Cheese bread is beloved worldwide — in Brazil, Pão de Queijo is a naturally gluten-free cheese bread made with tapioca flour.

• The combination of bread and cheese dates back centuries and is a staple comfort food in many cultures.

• Cheese bread pairs exceptionally well with wine and is often served as an appetizer in upscale restaurants.

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Step-by-Step Summary

Step	Action	Duration/Temperature
1	Activate yeast (optional)	5-10 mins at 110°F
2	Mix dry ingredients	-
3	Mix wet ingredients	-
4	Knead dough	5-10 mins
5	Fold in cheese	-
6	First rise	1 - 1.5 hrs (double size)
7	Shape dough	-
8	Second rise	30-45 mins
9	Add cheese topping	-
10	Bake	30-35 mins at 350°F
11	Cool	20 mins