Cheesy Tear and Share Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this cheesy tear-and-share bread because it’s packed with gooey, melted cheese and a rich, buttery flavor that’s irresistible. The dough is light and soft, and the best part is that you can pull apart the pieces and enjoy it with every bite. It’s perfect for casual get-togethers, game day, or as a comforting addition to dinner. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

• 500g strong white bread flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 7g dried yeast

• 2 teaspoon sugar

• 300ml warm water

• 2 tablespoon olive oil

• 100g unsalted butter, melted

• 200g cheddar cheese, grated

• 100g mozzarella cheese, grated

• Fresh herbs (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and sugar.

2. Add the dried yeast and mix well.

3. Slowly pour in the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough starts to form.

4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp tea towel. Let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake tin.

7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls (about 12-15).

8. Roll each ball into a small round and fill the center with a bit of cheese.

9. Place the balls in the prepared tin, stacking them in a circular shape.

10. Pour the melted butter over the top and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the dough.

11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden and cooked through.

12. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 30 minutes

• Rising time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add garlic: Mix in some minced garlic into the butter for an extra savory punch.

• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.

• Different cheeses: Swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for other cheeses such as gouda or parmesan for variety.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese filling for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it will result in a denser bread. You may need to adjust the water amount as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.

2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free version and use non-dairy cheese like vegan mozzarella or cheddar.

3. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Once ready to bake, let it thaw and come to room temperature before baking.

4. How long will the bread stay fresh?

The bread is best eaten on the day it's made, but you can store it for up to two days at room temperature.

5. Can I make the bread in advance for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

6. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?

Yes, you can use fresh yeast in place of dry yeast. You will need to double the amount of fresh yeast compared to dry yeast.

7. What can I serve this bread with?

This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as a side for roasted meats.

8. Can I make it without cheese?

Yes, you can make a plain tear-and-share bread without cheese. Just brush the dough with butter and herbs before baking.

9. Why didn’t my dough rise properly?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water you use is warm, not hot, as too hot water can kill the yeast.

10. Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza or bread dough as a shortcut. Just follow the same steps for rolling and filling.

Conclusion

This cheesy tear-and-share bread is the perfect addition to any meal, offering a deliciously gooey and comforting experience. Its simple preparation and endless customization options make it an ideal recipe for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a party. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a favorite!

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