Dede'S Poppy Seed Cheese Bread
A cheesy, buttery bread with poppy seeds, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a flavorful side dish. Its gooey cheese and crunchy topping delight all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the French bread without cutting all the way through.
- Insert Monterey Jack cheese slices between each cut of bread.
- Melt the butter and drizzle it between and on top of the bread slices.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds between and on top of the bread slices.
- Wrap the bread in tinfoil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using garlic butter instead of plain butter. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist. If you don't have poppy seeds, sesame seeds can serve as a suitable substitute. Make sure not to slice the bread all the way through to keep it intact and hold the fillings well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious poppy seed cheese bread as an appetizer at gatherings or alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with a bowl of soup, such as tomato or potato leek, for a comforting meal. For a sweet finish, consider following it up with a slice of Carol'S Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain its cheesy, buttery goodness while preventing it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dede'S Poppy Seed Cheese Bread contains roughly 313 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 31g fat.
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 prepare the bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread up to the baking step and wrap it tightly in foil. Store it in the fridge and bake it just before serving. This allows you to enjoy fresh, melty cheese bread without the last-minute rush.
What can I substitute for French bread?
If you don't have French bread, a ciabatta or sourdough loaf makes an excellent substitute. Both will hold the cheese well and add their own unique flavors. Just ensure that the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it primarily uses bread, cheese, and butter. Ensure that the cheese you use is made without animal rennet if you want it to be strictly vegetarian. Monterey Jack is typically suitable, but always check the label.
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).