Looking for a delicious, quick, and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? This cheese-filled bread is just what you need! With a golden, crispy crust and a soft, cheesy center, this delightful bread combines cheddar and feta cheese for a savory treat that’s sure to impress. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make, even for beginners!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) warm water
- 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) warm milk
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast (5 g)
- 1 full spoon sugar (20 g)
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 egg (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon salt (8 g)
- 360 g (12.7 oz) flour
For the Filling:
- 300 g (10.6 oz) cheddar cheese
- 200 g (7 oz) feta cheese
For Spreading:
- 1 egg yolk + 1 teaspoon oil
- A little grated cheese (one handful)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Dough Preparation
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a deep bowl, combine 100 ml warm water and 100 ml warm milk. Ensure the temperature is lukewarm to activate the yeast effectively but not so hot that it kills the yeast. Add 1 full spoon sugar and 1 teaspoon dry yeast. Stir until the yeast and sugar are completely dissolved. - Add Oil and Egg
Add 3 tablespoons of oil and 1 room-temperature egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well until the egg is fully incorporated. - Incorporate Flour and Salt
Gradually add 360 g flour and 1 teaspoon salt while stirring continuously. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, so avoid over-mixing or kneading it by hand. A sticky dough will yield a fluffier texture once baked. - Let it Rise
Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm place until it doubles in size. This could take around 1-1.5 hours depending on the room temperature. Be patient and allow the yeast to work its magic.
Filling Preparation
- Grate the Cheese
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. Grate the cheddar cheese, setting aside a handful for topping later. Crumble the feta cheese with a fork. - Mix the Cheeses
Combine the grated cheddar and crumbled feta cheese in a bowl. Gently shape the mixture into a ball with your hands, being careful not to press too hard, so the cheeses remain light and fluffy.
Assembly and Baking
- Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, transfer it onto a floured surface. Lightly knead it to form a smooth ball. Use your palms to flatten the dough into a disc shape, approximately 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. - Add the Filling
Place the cheese ball in the center of the dough disc. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese ball, covering it completely. Pinch the seams together to seal the filling inside. Gently flatten the dough with your palms to form a slightly flattened round shape. - Prepare for Baking
Transfer the assembled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let the dough rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow it to rise slightly. - Final Touches
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg yolk and 1 teaspoon oil. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of the dough. Sprinkle the reserved grated cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust. - Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius (375°F). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly crisp. Keep an eye on the bread, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
Tips for Success
- Ensure Proper Dough Consistency
The dough should be soft and slightly sticky for the best results. If it feels too dry, add a little more warm water or milk. - Don’t Skip the Resting Period
Allowing the dough to rest both before and after filling it ensures a lighter and fluffier texture. - Experiment with Fillings
Get creative with your fillings! You can use different cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta, or add herbs, spices, and even cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to customize this recipe to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious cheese-filled bread warm, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, a bowl of soup, or as a standalone savory snack. This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an accompaniment to any meal.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories: Approx. 260 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
Enjoy this incredibly simple, fast, and delicious recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!
