If you’re a fan of gooey, golden, cheesy goodness baked into soft bread, then this Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe is calling your name! Imagine the smell of freshly baked bread mingling with melty cheese, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This recipe is the perfect indulgence for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or just treating yourself to something delicious. Trust me, once you try this cheese bread, it’ll instantly become a favorite in your household.

I first discovered cheese bread during a trip to Brazil, where pão de queijo reigns supreme. While this isn’t quite the same, it draws inspiration from those cheesy flavors but simplifies the process for home bakers. You don’t need fancy ingredients or techniques—this recipe is approachable, fun, and downright satisfying.

The Story Behind Ultimate Cheese Bread

Let’s talk cheese bread! Variations of this treat exist worldwide, from the stretchy pão de queijo in Brazil to cheesy garlic bread in Italy. This recipe borrows elements from these traditions while keeping the ingredients simple and accessible. The idea is to balance the chewiness of the bread with the gooeyness of the cheese for ultimate comfort food vibes.

I remember baking this recipe for the first time on a chilly fall evening. The warmth of the oven, the smell of the melting cheese—it was like a hug in bread form. It became a staple for our family game nights and potlucks. The best part? It’s versatile enough to play around with different cheeses and flavor profiles. Whether you prefer sharp, nutty Parmesan or creamy mozzarella, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Oh, and here’s a little seasonal tip: this cheese bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups in the winter and fresh salads in the summer. You’ll love how it fits into your menu year-round!

Ingredient Discussion

Here’s where the magic happens—the ingredients! Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect cheesy delight. Let’s break them down:

All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of our bread. Look for fresh flour without any clumps. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for similar results.
Yeast: Active dry yeast is key for that fluffy rise. Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast will leave your bread flat. If you’re unsure, proof it with warm water and sugar first.
Milk: Warm milk (not hot!) activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough. Whole milk works best, but you can use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Here’s where you can get creative! I recommend a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the best flavor and melt. Parmesan adds a nutty depth, while Gruyère brings a sophisticated touch.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps create that tender, golden crust. If salted is all you have, just reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Salt: Essential for flavor balance. Kosher salt is my go-to, but sea salt works too.

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, but make sure to grab the freshest cheese you can find. Shredding it yourself is worth the extra effort for better meltability. And don’t forget—you can tweak the cheeses based on what’s available or your personal preferences. This bread loves variety!

Equipment Needed

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you’ve got the tools you need. Luckily, this recipe doesn’t require anything fancy:

Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the dough and one for the cheese mixture.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for mixing without overworking the dough.
Stand mixer (optional): If you have one, it’ll make kneading a breeze, but hand-kneading works just as well.
Baking sheet: A simple baking sheet lined with parchment paper will do the trick.
Pastry brush: Handy for brushing butter over the finished bread.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a stand mixer—I’ve made this recipe entirely by hand, and it’s still a winner. Just remember to keep your workspace lightly floured to avoid sticking during kneading.

Preparation Method

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) of active dry yeast with 1/2 cup (120 ml) of warm milk (about 100°F/38°C) and 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups (315 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and the yeast mixture. Add 2 tbsp (30 g) melted butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar and 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella. Set aside.
Shape the bread: Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches). Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, then roll it up tightly like a jelly roll.
Second rise: Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Brush with butter: As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush it with 1 tbsp melted butter for extra shine and flavor.

Let the bread cool slightly before slicing—it’ll still be warm enough to enjoy gooey cheese in every bite!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your cheese bread turns out perfectly:

Don’t rush the yeast: Give it time to activate properly. If it doesn’t foam up, start over with fresh yeast.
Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your milk and butter aren’t too cold. This helps the dough rise evenly.
Cheese distribution: Spread the cheese evenly to avoid clumps. This ensures every bite is cheesy.
Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread in the oven to prevent the cheese from burning. Aim for a golden crust.

If you’re new to bread-making, don’t stress about perfection. Bread has a way of forgiving little mistakes—it’ll still taste amazing!

Variations & Adaptations

Feeling adventurous? Try these variations:

Herb-infused cheese bread: Add 2 tsp dried oregano or rosemary to the cheese mixture for a savory twist.
Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the cheese mixture for a bit of heat.
Whole wheat version: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

One of my personal favorites is adding caramelized onions to the cheese mixture—it’s a game-changer! Let your creativity shine.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Cheese bread tastes best when served warm, straight from the oven. Slice it into thick pieces and pair it with:

A hearty tomato soup
A crisp green salad
A glass of red wine

To store, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to a month—just thaw and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving (1 slice):

Calories: 220
Protein: 7g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 28g

The cheese adds calcium, while the bread provides energy-boosting carbs. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium cheeses. This recipe is easily adaptable to fit most diets!

Conclusion

This Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe is everything you need for a foolproof cheesy delight. From its comforting aroma to the gooey, melty center, it’s the kind of recipe that brings smiles to every table. I love making this bread because it’s simple yet satisfying—and customizable to suit any craving.

If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your variations and tips—I’m always excited to hear how others make it their own. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with cheesy joy!

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and avoids additives found in pre-shredded varieties.

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast mixture bubbles and foams after 5-10 minutes, it’s good to go!

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Bake fresh the next day.

What’s the best way to reheat cheese bread?

Wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for great results.

Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 slices) 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A gooey, golden, cheesy bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp (30 g) melted butter
1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) of active dry yeast with 1/2 cup (120 ml) of warm milk (about 100°F/38°C) and 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups (315 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and the yeast mixture. Add 2 tbsp (30 g) melted butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar and 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella. Set aside.
Shape the bread: Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches). Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, then roll it up tightly like a jelly roll.
Second rise: Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Brush with butter: As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush it with 1 tbsp melted butter for extra shine and flavor.
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing—it’ll still be warm enough to enjoy gooey cheese in every bite!

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese for better meltability. Experiment with different cheese combinations or add herbs and spices for unique flavors.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Bread
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 220
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 350
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 1
Protein: 7

Keywords: cheese bread, cheesy bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, comfort food