Savor the Savory Delight: Cheesy Bundt Bread
Are you ready to elevate your bread game to a whole new level of deliciousness? Look no further than this Cheesy Bundt Bread recipe! With its irresistible combination of warm, cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs, this bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving it as a savory side dish or enjoying it on its own as a satisfying snack, every bite is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. So, dust off your bundt pan and get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering creation!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F to 115°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the granulated sugar in the warm milk. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the melted butter, beaten egg, and activated yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble the bread: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and coat it in the cheese mixture. Arrange the coated dough balls evenly in a greased bundt pan.
- Let rise again: Cover the bundt pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully flipping it out onto a serving platter. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gouda, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese would all make delicious additions or substitutions.
- Herb Variations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your herb selection. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil would all add wonderful flavor to this bread.
- Add-ins: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or caramelized onions to the cheese mixture.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Additionally, use a low-carb milk alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk and replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Low Carb Version: Similarly, for a lower-carb option, you can use almond flour or a blend of almond flour and coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour. Use a low-carb milk alternative and reduce the amount of sugar or sweetener used in the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply let the dough come to room temperature before shaping it into balls and proceeding with the recipe.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a low oven before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? A: Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried in this recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor may be more subtle, so you may need to use a larger quantity of fresh herbs to achieve the desired taste.
Q: Can I make this bread without a bundt pan? A: While a bundt pan creates a beautiful presentation, you can certainly make this bread in a standard loaf pan or as individual rolls. Simply adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the bread as it bakes.
In conclusion, the Cheesy Bundt Bread is a delightful fusion of cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a snack, this bread is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike. So, why not treat yourself to a slice of cheesy perfection? Give this recipe a try and prepare to be amazed by its irresistible flavor and texture!