Homemade Cheese Filled Braided Bread
A delightful combination of rich cheese and soft, fluffy bread, perfect for family meals or festive gatherings.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour Base of the bread for a soft and elastic dough.
- 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast Helps the dough rise.
- 1.5 cups Warm water Between 100°F and 110°F to activate the yeast.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten.
- 2 cups Shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar) Filling for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon Dried herbs (optional) Enhances the flavor of the cheese filling.
Instructions
- 1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Mix thoroughly.
- 3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- 4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- 6. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it back to a floured surface.
- 7. Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll each into a long rope (12-14 inches).
- 8. Lay the ropes next to each other on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pinch the top ends together.
- 9. Braid the ropes by crossing the right rope over the middle, then the left over the new middle, and repeat until the end.
- 10. Pinch the ends together and tuck them under.
- 11. Mix shredded cheese with optional herbs and fill the braid sections with the cheese mixture.
- 12. Cover the braided bread and let it rise for another 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 13. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Check for doneness by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow.
- 14. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven.