Cheese Twisted Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add the frothy yeast mixture, olive oil, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a rough dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

1. In a bowl, combine the softened butter, shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well to create a spreadable cheese mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Twisted Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (approximately 12×16 inches).
3. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
5. Use a sharp knife to slice the log in half lengthwise, exposing the cheese filling.
6. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up, to form a braided loaf.
7. Transfer the twisted dough to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a ring or keep it straight, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Brush the twisted loaf with the egg wash to give it a golden crust.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
3. Let the bread cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley (optional).

Tips for Success:

• Cheese varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Fontina for unique flavors.
• Add-ins: For extra flavor, include cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or chopped jalapeños in the filling.
• Avoid overbaking: Check the bread at 25 minutes to prevent the cheese from burning.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for a freshly baked taste.

Conclusion:
This Cheese Twisted Bread is a show-stopping recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft, golden crust and cheesy, buttery filling, it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Serve it warm and watch it disappear slice by slice!