Are you craving warm, gooey, cheesy bread but short on time? Then you're in the right place! This recipe utilizes the magic of your bread machine to create incredibly delicious cheese bread with minimal effort. Forget complicated kneading and rising times – this is homemade comfort food made easy. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or simply a comforting treat for yourself. Get ready to experience the joy of fresh-baked cheese bread, effortlessly made in your bread machine!
Ingredients: A Simple Symphony of Flavor
This recipe yields one loaf of irresistible cheese bread.
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend!)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Bliss Made Easy
Get started:
- Grease your bread machine pan well. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked loaf.
Add the ingredients:
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Add the warm water to the bread machine pan, followed by the sugar, salt, and softened butter.
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In a separate bowl, gently whisk together the flour and yeast. Add the flour mixture to the bread machine pan.
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Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the other ingredients.
Bread machine settings:
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Select the "dough" or "basic" setting on your bread machine. This allows the machine to thoroughly mix the ingredients and knead the dough. Consult your bread machine’s manual for specific instructions.
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Once the dough cycle is complete, carefully remove the dough from the bread pan. Shape it gently into a round or oval loaf, placing it back into the greased bread pan.
Bake and enjoy:
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Select the "bake" setting on your bread machine and let the magic happen! The baking time will vary depending on your machine, usually between 45-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last 15 minutes.
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Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the warm cheese bread from the bread machine and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cheese Bread
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby, provolone, or a blend all work wonderfully.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Incorporate herbs like rosemary or oregano, garlic powder, or even chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Crust Control: For a softer crust, lightly brush the top of the bread with melted butter after baking.
- Storage: Store leftover cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approximate)
This information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This easy cheese bread recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that showcases the ease and convenience of homemade cooking while delivering on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy!