Peasant Cheese Bread
A hearty, wholesome cheese bread with nutty whole wheat flavor and a chewy oat crust, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or casual gatherings with a rustic appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cheese.
- In a second bowl, combine the syrup, beaten egg, and buttermilk.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix just enough to thoroughly combine.
- Knead the dough about 10 to 12 times on a surface sprinkled with oats.
- Mold into a 7-inch (17.5 cm) ball and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
- Cool completely before serving or rewarming.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. For a heartier texture, replace some of the all-purpose flour with more rolled oats. Knead the dough gently to maintain its airy structure, ensuring a light and fluffy bread.
Serving Suggestions
This Peasant Cheese Bread is delicious on its own or served with butter or a spread of cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with hearty soups or stews, making it a perfect accompaniment to dishes like Mushroom Croustade. For a light meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a cheese platter for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the Peasant Cheese Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend its shelf life, freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven until warmed through for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peasant Cheese Bread contains roughly 258 calories, with 4g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1451mg per serving (63% 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 different types of flour for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flours like spelt or rye for a unique flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that the bread may turn out denser depending on the flour used, so adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try adding small amounts of flour gradually until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as that can make the bread dense. Alternatively, dust your hands and the work surface with flour to help shape the dough more easily.
Is it possible to add cheese to the bread?
Yes! Incorporating shredded cheese into the dough can enhance the flavor significantly. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta work well. Just fold in about 1 cup of your preferred cheese after mixing the wet and dry ingredients, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
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).