Are you craving a comforting, flavorful bread that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This cheese and onion bread recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful weekend baking project, or even a tasty addition to your next picnic. It's a fantastic example of how delicious homemade cooking can be, even with minimal effort. This recipe delivers a wonderfully soft texture with a delightful savory punch, making it a favorite among family and friends. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade bread!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
Mixing the Dough:
- Stir in the olive oil and salt. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Adding the Flavor:
- Stir in the grated cheese and chopped onion. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!
Kneading the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Second Rise:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for accurate results.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Slice and serve warm – enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheese and Onion Bread:
- Yeast Activation: Make sure your yeast is fresh. If it doesn't foam after 10 minutes, it might be dead and you'll need to start over with a fresh batch.
- Flour Consistency: The amount of flour you need might vary slightly depending on the humidity and type of flour. Add flour gradually to achieve a dough that's slightly sticky but not overly wet.
- Kneading Technique: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, resulting in a chewier, more textured bread.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses would all work wonderfully.
- Add-ins: Incorporate other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 Fat: 5-8g Protein: 4-6g Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy recipe is perfect for beginners looking for simple healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s a delicious dish, a testament to the joy of homemade cooking, and definitely one of the best recipes you'll find for satisfying bread. Enjoy the aroma and the taste of freshly baked cheese and onion bread!