In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This activates the yeast and gets it ready to help the dough rise.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the flour. Add the melted butter and stir to combine, creating a soft dough.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a little more warm milk.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Once the dough is smooth, place it in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for developing the texture of the bread.
Step 4: Shape the Bread
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 12 inches by 8 inches. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the dough.
Roll the dough up tightly from one long side to the other, making sure the cheese is tucked inside. Pinch the seams to seal the bread.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place the rolled-up dough into a greased loaf pan, seam side down. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, until it has risen above the top of the pan.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Once the dough has finished its second rise, you can optionally brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg (for a shiny finish) or just brush it with melted butter for a soft, golden crust.
Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice.
Step 9: Slice and Enjoy
Once the cheese bread has cooled slightly, slice it and enjoy! It’s perfect served warm with a pat of butter, as a side to soups or salads, or on its own as a delicious snack.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Bread:
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, or even Gruyère for different flavors. You can also mix different cheeses together for a more complex taste.
- Add Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking.
- Storing the Bread: If you have leftovers, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly and freezing.
Why You’ll Love This Cheese Bread:
This Cheese Bread has everything you want in a comforting loaf: a golden, crusty exterior, a soft, pillowy interior, and pockets of melty cheese throughout. It’s the perfect addition to any meal, and it’s easy to make with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re having it with a hearty soup, enjoying it on its own, or using it for sandwiches, this bread is sure to be a hit.
Enjoy the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cheese bread wafting through your kitchen, and savor each cheesy, flavorful bite!