Homemade Cheese Bread Recipe – Soft, Cheesy, and Irresistible

by

This cheese bread recipe is the perfect combination of soft, fluffy bread and melty, gooey cheese. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a side dish, or as a snack, this homemade bread will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. With a crispy golden crust and a cheesy, buttery flavor, it’s a comforting treat that pairs well with almost anything.

Unlike store-bought cheese bread, this version is made from scratch with simple ingredients and allows for endless customizations. Try different cheeses, herbs, or even a stuffed version for an extra indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – Simple steps with minimal ingredients.
  • Soft & Fluffy – A perfect balance of chewiness and tenderness.
  • Cheese Lover’s Dream – Melty cheese inside and a golden, cheesy crust.
  • Versatile – Great for breakfast, snacks, or sandwiches.
  • Customizable – Add herbs, garlic, or even a spicy kick.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 3 tablespoons sugar (to help activate the yeast)
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheese Filling & Topping:

  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan)
  • 1 egg, beaten (optional, for an egg wash to create a golden crust)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to work.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  2. Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter.
  3. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then transfer to a lightly floured surface.
  4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Shape & Add Cheese

  1. Punch down the dough to release air bubbles.
  2. Shape it into a round or oblong loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet.
  3. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Second Rise

  1. Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This helps develop a light texture.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. For a golden crust, brush the dough with a beaten egg wash (optional).
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  4. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Cheese bread is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for different meals:

Breakfast Pairings:

  • Toast with butter, jam, or honey for a simple morning treat.
  • Pair with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a hearty breakfast.
  • Make breakfast sandwiches by adding cheese, ham, or turkey.

Savory Meal Ideas:

  • Serve as a side with soups or stews like tomato soup or beef stew.
  • Make gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches by slicing and toasting.
  • Turn it into garlic bread by brushing with butter and minced garlic before baking.

Cheese Bread Variations

This recipe is easy to customize. Try these creative variations:

Flavor Enhancements:

  • Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the dough for a fragrant twist.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a touch of heat.
  • Garlic Bread Version: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter and brush it on top before baking.

Cheese Combinations:

  • Blend of Cheeses: Try different combinations like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
  • Stuffed Cheese Bread: Instead of just topping the bread with cheese, fold it into the dough for a gooey center.

Sweet & Savory Twists:

  • Sweet Cheese Bread: Add a bit of sugar and cinnamon to the dough and use mascarpone or cream cheese for a dessert version.
  • Savory Add-Ins: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier bread.

Storage Tips – Keeping Your Bread Fresh

Short-Term Storage:

  • Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool at room temperature before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap in Plastic or Foil: This keeps the bread from drying out and maintains freshness.
  • Use a Bread Box: If you have one, this is the best place to store bread for up to 3 days.

Refrigeration & Freezing:

  • Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week (note: refrigeration may slightly change the texture).
  • Freeze for Later Use: Slice the bread and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or toast straight from the freezer.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g

Final Thoughts

This homemade cheese bread is the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness. It’s easy to make, customizable with different cheeses and flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, every bite is a treat.

Try this recipe today and enjoy warm, homemade cheese bread straight from your kitchen!

Leave a Comment