Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until bubbly.
- Stir in olive oil and salt.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until a dough forms.
- Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
- Dough should be soft, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
Step 3: First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Punch down dough and turn onto a floured surface.
- Gently knead in 1½ cups of shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
- Shape into a loaf or round boule.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Place shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or onto a lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 6: Top and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top of the dough.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container or wrap in foil for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Reheating:
Warm in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes, or microwave slices for 20 seconds.
Freezing:
Slice and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat in toaster oven or bake straight from frozen.
🥄 Variations
Garlic Cheese Bread: Add 1 tsp garlic powder to dough or butter the crust with garlic butter before baking.
Spicy Cheese Bread: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes with the cheese.
Herbed Cheese Bread: Add 1 tsp dried oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning for extra aroma.
Stuffed Cheese Loaf: Roll dough flat, fill with cheese, roll up like a jelly roll, then bake.
Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle parmesan and breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
❓ 10 FAQs
What kind of cheese is best for this bread?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix. Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly grated melts better and tastes fresher. Why didn’t my bread rise?
The yeast may be expired or your water may have been too hot/cold. Aim for 110°F. Can I make it without a stand mixer?
Yes! It just requires more elbow grease, but kneading by hand works well. What if I want it cheesier?
Add more cheese into the dough or sprinkle extra on top before baking. Can I make this into rolls?
Absolutely. Divide into balls and bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but replace only half the flour for a balance between taste and texture. What goes well with cheese bread?
Soups (like tomato or broccoli cheddar), chili, pasta dishes, or simply butter and jam. Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes. Just bloom it in warm water before adding flour. How do I get a shiny top crust?
Brush with melted butter right out of the oven. 🏁 Conclusion This Irresistible Cheese Bread is your go-to recipe when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The cheesy aroma, golden crust, and soft, savory interior make it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it to guests or devouring a slice straight from the oven, this loaf is sure to impress. It’s not just bread. It’s cheese bread — and that means every bite is a celebration of indulgence, simplicity, and cheesy perfection.
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix. Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly grated melts better and tastes fresher. Why didn’t my bread rise?
The yeast may be expired or your water may have been too hot/cold. Aim for 110°F. Can I make it without a stand mixer?
Yes! It just requires more elbow grease, but kneading by hand works well. What if I want it cheesier?
Add more cheese into the dough or sprinkle extra on top before baking. Can I make this into rolls?
Absolutely. Divide into balls and bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but replace only half the flour for a balance between taste and texture. What goes well with cheese bread?
Soups (like tomato or broccoli cheddar), chili, pasta dishes, or simply butter and jam. Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes. Just bloom it in warm water before adding flour. How do I get a shiny top crust?
Brush with melted butter right out of the oven. 🏁 Conclusion This Irresistible Cheese Bread is your go-to recipe when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The cheesy aroma, golden crust, and soft, savory interior make it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it to guests or devouring a slice straight from the oven, this loaf is sure to impress. It’s not just bread. It’s cheese bread — and that means every bite is a celebration of indulgence, simplicity, and cheesy perfection.