Cheese Dreams are a delicious and decadent treat that transforms simple white bread into a savory, cheesy delight. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a fun addition to a brunch spread, these cheesy bites are sure to impress. The combination of sharp white cheddar cheese with butter, heavy cream, and a mix of seasonings creates a rich and flavorful topping that gets baked to perfection. Here’s how you can make these delightful Cheese Dreams at home.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf sturdy white sandwich bread (not soft & spongy)
- 2 ½ cups sharp white cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried ground mustard
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy and golden finish on your Cheese Dreams.
2. Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the loaf of white sandwich bread into ½-inch thick slices. If your bread is not already sturdy, you may want to toast it lightly before starting to make the Cheese Dreams. This will help the bread hold up better under the rich cheese mixture.
3. Make the Cheese Spread:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely grated sharp white cheddar cheese, softened butter, heavy cream, and egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, and dried ground mustard to the bowl. Stir to incorporate all the seasonings evenly throughout the cheese mixture.
4. Assemble the Cheese Dreams:
- Spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture evenly over each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the bread for maximum flavor and cheesiness.
- Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. If you prefer, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on the Cheese Dreams as they bake to avoid burning.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the Cheese Dreams from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help them set and make them easier to cut into smaller pieces if desired.
- Serve the Cheese Dreams warm or at room temperature. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or party treat.
Tips for Success
- Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy white bread that can hold up to the cheese mixture without becoming too soggy. A high-quality sandwich bread or a day-old loaf works well.
- Cheese Quality: Use a sharp white cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a more intense flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Butter Consistency: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Cold butter will make it difficult to blend with the cheese and other ingredients.
- Seasonings: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
Variations
- Herb Cheese Dreams: Add finely chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or thyme to the cheese mixture for added flavor and freshness.
- Spicy Cheese Dreams: Incorporate some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture for a spicy twist.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or Gouda, for different flavor profiles.
Cheese Dreams are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese with the creamy goodness of butter and cream. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or part of a brunch spread, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With their crispy, golden topping and savory cheese filling, they offer a comforting and delicious taste experience. Enjoy making and sharing these Cheese Dreams, and savor the cheesy goodness in every bite!
