These Cheese-Stuffed Soft Breads are a delicious, fluffy, and savory treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a side dish. The dough is soft and pillowy, filled with melted cheddar cheese, making each bite irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just as a quick and satisfying meal, these soft breads are sure to impress. The recipe is easy to follow and yields wonderfully soft, cheesy, and golden breads with a delicate texture.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8 pieces
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 glass of warm milk (200 ml)
- 1 glass of warm water (200 ml)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (10 g)
- 1 tablespoon of dry yeast (10 g)
- 1 tea glass of vegetable oil (90 ml)
- 5.5 cups of flour (660 g), plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon of salt (8 g)
For the Filling:
- 200 g Cheddar cheese, grated
- 50 g cold butter, grated
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 10 ml milk (for egg wash)
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine 200 ml warm milk, 200 ml warm water, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 tablespoon dry yeast. Stir the mixture well until the yeast dissolves. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate the yeast, which will begin to bubble.
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Make the Dough:
- To the activated yeast mixture, add 1 tea glass of vegetable oil, 5.5 cups of flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix the ingredients together, and gradually add the flour in controlled amounts. The amount of flour might vary depending on its quality.
- Once the mixture starts to come together, knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and elastic. You should have a soft dough at the end of this step.
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Let the Dough Rise:
- Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour to allow it to ferment and rise.
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Shape the Dough:
- After 1 hour, the dough should have risen. Gently punch it down to remove the air, and gather the dough into a ball.
- Shape the dough into a square on a lightly floured surface. Grate the cold butter and sprinkle it evenly over the dough.
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Form the Breads:
- Roll the dough into a log shape and divide it into 4 equal parts. Shape each part into a ball, then let them sit for about 20 minutes to rest.
- After resting, crumple both ends of each dough ball, and gently roll it out to a size of 25-30 cm.
- Once rolled out, divide each piece of dough into 8 smaller portions.
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Stuff with Cheese:
- Place grated Cheddar cheese along the edges of each dough portion. Fold and roll the dough around the cheese, creating a sealed, stuffed dough ball.
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Place on Baking Tray:
- Line a baking tray with baking paper. Place each stuffed dough piece on the tray, leaving a little space between each. Cover the tray with a cloth and let it ferment for about 15 minutes.
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Prepare the Egg Wash:
- Mix 1 egg yolk with 10 ml milk. After the dough has fermented, brush the tops of the dough balls with the egg wash.
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Bake the Breads:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the stuffed breads for 35 minutes or until golden and crisp on top.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Enjoy them soft and warm, with gooey cheese inside.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
The Origins and Popularity of Stuffed Breads:
Stuffed breads are a popular comfort food across many cultures. The tradition of baking bread and filling it with various ingredients dates back thousands of years. From Turkish gözleme to Middle Eastern stuffed flatbreads, these breads are known for their versatility and ability to absorb flavors from fillings like cheese, meat, and vegetables. This recipe, featuring cheddar cheese and a light, buttery dough, is a classic twist on the stuffed bread concept, showcasing a creamy, cheesy filling that is both comforting and satisfying. Stuffed breads are popular in many countries and are often served as snacks or side dishes for festive meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this recipe because it combines warm, soft bread with a gooey, cheesy filling, creating a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The dough is fluffy and soft, while the cheese provides a rich, creamy bite in every piece. The buttery finish and golden crust make these breads incredibly satisfying, whether you’re having them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with your meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Health Benefits of Cheese-Stuffed Soft Breads:
This recipe offers some health benefits:
- Cheddar cheese provides a good source of calcium for strong bones and protein for muscle repair.
- Potatoes (if added as a variation) are rich in vitamin C and potassium, which support immune health and heart function.
- Flour provides carbohydrates, which give you lasting energy, and olive oil contributes healthy fats.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro (if used) provide antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support overall health.
Serving Suggestions:
These Cheese-Stuffed Soft Breads are perfect on their own or served with:
- A side salad for added freshness and crunch.
- Tomato soup for a classic pairing.
- Grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a heartier meal.
Tips:
- Add more fillings: You can add ham, spinach, or mushrooms to the cheese filling for added flavor and texture.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the dough and stuff the breads the night before, then bake them the next day for a quick meal.
- Freeze for later: These breads freeze well! Freeze them after baking, and reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
Variations to Try:
- Spicy Stuffed Breads: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or jalapeños to the cheese for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Stuffed Breads: For a dessert version, use sweetened cream cheese or chocolate as the filling.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion:
These Cheese-Stuffed Soft Breads are a comforting and flavorful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as a snack or a main dish, they’ll be a hit with family and friends. The combination of soft dough and melty cheese creates a satisfying bite that’s full of flavor. Don’t hesitate to try these delicious breads and enjoy them fresh from the oven!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even feta for a different flavor. -
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and stuff the breads ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake them fresh when ready to serve. -
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their soft texture.
Enjoy your Cheese-Stuffed Soft Breads and treat yourself to this delicious homemade delight!