Are you craving a warm, comforting bread but short on time and ingredients? This incredibly simple cottage cheese bread recipe uses just two main ingredients and delivers surprisingly delicious results. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and easy homemade treat, this recipe is a winner for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks looking for a simple yet satisfying addition to their repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat, your preference!)
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative)
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This simple step ensures your bread bakes evenly and prevents sticking.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese and flour. Mix thoroughly until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little wet; that's perfectly normal for this recipe.
-
Shape the Loaf: Gently transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a rough loaf, ensuring it fills the pan evenly.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes, as ovens can vary.
-
Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from becoming soggy. Enjoy warm or at room temperature – it's delicious either way!
Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Bread:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature cottage cheese helps create a smoother dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bread during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. If it browns too quickly, loosely cover the top with foil.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Herbs & Spices: Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary, or a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Sprinkle some grated cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Sweet Treat: Add a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon for a subtly sweet cottage cheese bread. This is particularly delicious served warm with butter!
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of cottage cheese and flour used. However, a general estimate per slice is approximately:
- Calories: 100-150
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy and delicious cottage cheese bread is perfect for those seeking simple, healthy meals and easy recipes. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a satisfying and flavorful bread with minimal effort. Enjoy this delicious dish as part of your quick dinner ideas, or simply savor it as a tasty treat.