🧀 Homemade Cheese Bread Recipe – Soft, Cheesy, and Perfect for Breakfast
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cheese bread wafting through your kitchen — warm, golden, and loaded with gooey cheese. This easy cheese bread recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, pairing beautifully with coffee, eggs, or even soup.
It’s soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and irresistibly cheesy in every bite!
🧂 Ingredients
Makes 1 large loaf (or 2 small loaves)
- 2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan)
- 1 egg, beaten (optional, for brushing the top)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar.
Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly — this means your yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Combine and Knead
Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the dry ingredients.
Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
(You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough
Punch down the risen dough to release air.
Shape into a round loaf or oblong log, depending on your preference.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle grated cheese evenly on top (or knead some into the dough for extra cheesiness).
If using the egg wash, brush the top lightly for a golden crust.
7. Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve
Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor!
🍳 Breakfast Serving Ideas
- Slice and enjoy with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage
- Toast and spread with butter, jam, or honey
- Make a breakfast sandwich with ham, cheese, or turkey
- Serve alongside soups or stews for a hearty meal
🧀 Flavor Variations
Get creative with your cheese bread! Try one of these twists:
🌿 Herb Infusion
Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil to the dough for an aromatic touch.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
🧄 Garlic Bread Version
Stir minced garlic into the melted butter before mixing, or brush garlic butter over the top before baking.
🧈 Stuffed Cheese Bread
Roll out the dough, fill it with extra cheese, spinach, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes, and then roll it up before baking.
🍬 Sweet Cheese Bread
Add 1–2 tablespoons sugar and cinnamon to the dough and use mascarpone or cream cheese for a sweet breakfast version.
🥓 Savory Add-Ins
Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed vegetables like onions and peppers for a heartier loaf.
💡 Baking Tips
✅ Use good-quality cheese — it makes a big difference in flavor.
✅ Adjust cheese quantity to your liking — more cheese = more flavor!
✅ For extra color and flavor, add a sprinkle of paprika or parsley on top before baking.
✅ For a crispier crust, bake directly on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.
🥖 Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your homemade cheese bread fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature (1–2 days):
- Let the bread cool completely before storing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.
- Store in a bread box or airtight container.
Refrigeration (up to 5 days):
- Keep wrapped in plastic or foil.
- Reheat slices in the toaster or oven to restore softness.
Freezing (up to 3 months):
- Slice the bread before freezing.
- Place slices in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheat directly from frozen in the toaster or oven.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This easy homemade cheese bread is soft, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor — the perfect addition to any breakfast table or dinner spread. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted, or as a sandwich base, it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes.
Simple ingredients. Cheesy goodness. Irresistible results.
That’s what homemade comfort food is all about. 🧀🥖✨