Crusty Cheese Bread
Crusty cheese bread features a golden crust, melted Gruyere cheese, and tender potato-infused dough, perfect for entertaining or hearty family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle yeast into warm water; stir until dissolved.
- Sift together flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine potatoes, melted butter, shredded Gruyere cheese, eggs, and cooled milk.
- Beat until well blended.
- Add the yeast mixture and dry ingredients; mix thoroughly.
- Turn dough onto a well-floured surface.
- Knead about 8 minutes or until smooth and satiny.
- Place in a greased bowl and cover.
- Let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough.
- Knead gently on a floured surface for 2 minutes.
- Shape into a 20-inch roll.
- Place in a well-greased 9-inch ring mold and pinch edges to seal.
- Cover and let rise until almost doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. If you don't have Gruyere cheese, substitutes like Swiss or cheddar can work well, though the taste will vary. Ensure your warm water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Kneading the dough properly is crucial for achieving a crusty texture.
Serving Suggestions
This crusty cheese bread is perfect for serving alongside soups or salads, especially a refreshing 'Yummy' Strawberry Salad for a delightful contrast. It can also be enjoyed with dips or spreads, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Consider pairing it with a glass of white wine for a lovely dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, wrap in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty Cheese Bread contains roughly 4525 calories, with 89g protein, 614g carbohydrates, and 198g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (389% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (186% of the Daily Value), and protein (177% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without dissolving it in water first. This can save time and still yield a great rise in your cheese bread.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check that your yeast is fresh and that the water temperature was warm enough but not too hot. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer location or extending the rising time. If it still doesn't rise, it may be necessary to start over with fresh yeast.
Can I freeze the cheese bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cheese bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
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).