This Cream Cheese-Filled Bread is a delightful treat that combines the soft, fluffy texture of freshly baked bread with the rich, creamy flavor of cream cheese. Each bite reveals a hidden pocket of cheese that melts in your mouth, making this bread an irresistible addition to any meal.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, this bread is surprisingly easy to make and delivers bakery-quality results at home. The dough, enriched with yeast and lightly sweetened with sugar, rises beautifully to create a light and airy crumb. The cream cheese filling adds a touch of decadence, making this bread a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you enjoy it on its own, with a pat of butter, or alongside a hot cup of coffee, this Cream Cheese-Filled Bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- Flour: 500 g (18 oz)
- Salt: 10 g (0.4 oz)
- Warm Water: 375 ml (13 fl oz)
- Dried Yeast: 8 g (0.3 oz)
- Sugar: 10 g (0.4 oz)
- For the Filling:
- Cream Cheese: 100 g (3.5 oz)
Directions:
- Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the sugar and dried yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is activated and will give your bread the perfect rise.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into small, equal-sized portions. Flatten each portion and place a small amount of cream cheese in the center.
- Form the Bread: Fold the edges of the dough around the cream cheese and pinch them together to seal. Shape the dough into smooth, round balls and place them seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough balls with a cloth and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up slightly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Serve warm to enjoy the soft, fluffy texture and creamy center.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Kcal: 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
More Information About the Cream Cheese-Filled Bread Recipe
Possible Questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like ricotta, mascarpone, or even a flavored cream cheese for a different twist. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change slightly depending on the cheese used.
- Can I make this bread ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape it and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature and allow it to rise slightly before baking. This is a great way to have fresh bread ready in the morning.
- Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
- Yes, you can add herbs, garlic, or even small pieces of ham or bacon to the dough to create a savory version of this bread. Just make sure the added ingredients are finely chopped and evenly distributed in the dough.
- What if my dough doesn’t rise?
- If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to a few factors: the yeast might be old or inactive, the water might have been too hot or too cold, or the environment might have been too cold for the dough to rise properly. Make sure to check the yeast’s expiration date and use warm water (around 110°F or 43°C) to activate it. If necessary, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to help it rise.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Bread:
- Ensure Proper Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a small amount of water until you reach the right consistency.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast will give your bread the best rise and texture. If you’re unsure, you can always proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water and a little sugar to see if it becomes frothy before adding it to the flour.
- Don’t Overfill the Dough: When adding the cream cheese filling, be careful not to overfill the dough portions. Too much filling can cause the dough to burst open during baking, leading to a messier result.
- Seal the Dough Well: Make sure to pinch the dough tightly around the cream cheese filling to prevent it from leaking out during baking. A well-sealed dough will result in a beautiful, round bread with a hidden cheesy center.
- Baking Time and Temperature: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can cover them lightly with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestions: This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of soup or salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with tomato soup, vegetable stew, or even a fresh green salad.
Conclusion:
Baking bread at home can be a truly rewarding experience, and this Cream Cheese-Filled Bread is no exception. It combines the comfort of homemade bread with a delightful surprise inside, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and guarantees a delicious outcome. The soft, fluffy dough encasing the creamy, cheesy center creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs.
So next time you’re in the mood for baking, give this Cream Cheese-Filled Bread a try. Not only will you enjoy the process, but you’ll also be rewarded with a loaf of bread that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or savoring it on your own, this bread is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.