Are you looking for a surprisingly easy and incredibly delicious bread recipe? Then look no further! This fluffy cottage cheese bread is a game-changer. It’s unbelievably soft, subtly sweet, and surprisingly moist, all thanks to the secret ingredient: cottage cheese! This recipe is perfect for beginners, a quick dinner addition, or a delightful treat anytime. It's a healthy alternative to traditional bread, packed with protein and surprisingly easy to whip up. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this fantastic homemade cooking creation!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
- 1 cup (240ml) cottage cheese, drained well
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins, chopped nuts, or seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). This preparation is crucial for a perfectly baked loaf.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the drained cottage cheese, egg, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of cottage cheese remaining.
Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Optional Mix-ins: Now is the time to add any optional ingredients like raisins, nuts, or seeds if you’re feeling adventurous! Gently fold them into the batter.
Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set properly.
Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Loaf
- Drain the Cottage Cheese: This step is essential! Excess moisture in the cottage cheese can make your bread soggy. Press the cottage cheese gently with a spoon or paper towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or spices.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds
- Savory Cottage Cheese Bread: Omit the sugar and add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a savory twist. You can also add grated cheese.
- Sweet Cottage Cheese Bread with Cinnamon: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
This fluffy cottage cheese bread is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s quick to prepare, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of homemade cooking!