Imagine creating a mouthwatering bread that’s incredibly soft, takes just 20 minutes to prepare, and stays fresh for an entire week! This yogurt bread recipe is a baker’s secret weapon that will transform your home baking experience. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a delectable bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- Warm water: 110-120 ml (½ cup)
- Yogurt: 70 ml (⅓ cup)
- Active dry yeast: 4 g (1 teaspoon)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Egg: 1 large
- Vegetable oil: 70 ml (⅓ cup)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 400-450 g (3¼ – 3½ cups)
Additional Filling Ingredients
- Soft butter: 120 g (½ cup)
- Fresh herbs: 1 bunch, chopped
- Cheese: 350 g (12 oz), grated
- Butter for greasing: 80 g (⅓ cup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yogurt, yeast, and sugar. Whisk together and let sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast.
- Add the egg and vegetable oil to the mixture. Stir thoroughly.
- Incorporate salt into the mixture.
- Gradually add flour, mixing with a spatula. Start with 400g and add more if needed.
- Knead the dough in the bowl for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for 5-6 minutes until smooth and not sticky.
- Grease a clean bowl with vegetable oil and place the dough inside.
- Cover with a towel and let rest for 50-60 minutes, allowing the dough to rise.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape into balls.
- Let the dough balls rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll each dough piece to 35×35 cm (14×14 inches).
- Spread soft butter on the dough, then fold and grease with oil multiple times to create layers.
- Let the folded dough rest for 30-35 minutes.
- Prepare filling by chopping herbs and grating cheese.
- Roll the dough to 20×35 cm (8×14 inches).
- Spread butter, sprinkle herbs and cheese.
- Cut into squares and stack in buttered baking pans.
- Let rise for 25-30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 12-15g
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Ensure water is warm (110-120°F) to activate yeast properly
- Use fresh, room temperature ingredients
- Don’t rush the rising process
- Knead dough until smooth for best texture
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace cheese with ham or bacon
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option
- Add dried herbs or garlic for extra flavor
- Substitute yogurt with sour cream
- Use different cheese varieties
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze this bread? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q2: How long will the bread stay fresh? A: Stored at room temperature, it remains soft for 5-7 days.
Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Use a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary.
Q4: What if my dough doesn’t rise? A: Check yeast freshness and ensure warm (not hot) environment.
Q5: Can I make this without eggs? A: Use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature
- Can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before final rise
- Reheat in oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes for fresh-baked taste
Enjoy your delicious homemade yogurt bread – a true culinary delight that’s sure to impress!
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