Cream Cheese Loaf
Cream Cheese Loaf offers a soft, flavorful bread with a hint of onion, perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, appealing to bread lovers and those seeking a savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 3 1/2 cups flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
- Stir to mix well.
- Combine water, milk, and butter in a small saucepan and heat until warm.
- Add the warm liquid mixture to the flour mixture.
- Add the cream cheese to the mixture.
- Beat at low speed until blended, then beat at medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Gradually mix in 1 1/2 cups of the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time.
- Scrape sides of the bowl while mixing.
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Shape dough into a ball and place in a large oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides.
- Cover with wax paper and a towel, then let rise for 30 minutes.
- Grease two loaf pans and shape the dough into loaves to place inside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer loaf, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter. If you don't have cream cheese, ricotta or mascarpone can be used as substitutes. Ensure your liquids are warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. Kneading is essential for developing gluten, so don't rush this step! For variation, you can incorporate herbs or cheese into the dough, enhancing flavors reminiscent of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This cream cheese loaf is delightful served warm with butter or as a base for sandwiches. Pair it with Creamy Mashed Potatoes for a comforting meal or enjoy it alongside a fresh salad. It also makes a great accompaniment to soups and stews, adding a hearty touch to your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the cream cheese loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm in a toaster or oven until heated through, which will help retain its softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Loaf contains roughly 855 calories, with 23g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (150% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2863mg per serving (124% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some of the all-purpose flour, but start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose to maintain texture. Whole wheat may yield a denser loaf, so be mindful to adjust the liquid content slightly.
How can I tell when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size after rising for about 30 minutes. You can also perform the 'finger poke test': gently poke the dough with a finger; if the indentation remains, it’s ready for shaping. If it springs back, let it rise longer.
What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?
You can add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor. Mixing in shredded cheese or chopped olives can also elevate the taste, making it a unique loaf that pairs well with various dishes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).