Cheese-Stuffed Bread

1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, combine 400 ml of warm milk, 15 grams of sugar, and 10 grams of dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, sift 480 grams of wheat flour and add 8 grams of salt. Mix well.
Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture along with 20 grams of olive oil. Stir to combine and form a dough.
2. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Shape the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese evenly over the dough.
Carefully roll the dough into a log shape, sealing the edges as you go.
4. Prepare the Bread for Baking:
Place the rolled dough into a greased baking pan. Let the dough rise for another 15-20 minutes.
Brush the top of the bread with 1 egg yolk to give it a golden, glossy finish.

5. Bake the Bread:
Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. To test if the bread is done, tap the bottom; it should sound hollow when cooked.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Slice and serve warm. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness inside!
Serving Suggestions
As a Snack: Serve the cheese-stuffed bread on its own as a cheesy, savory snack.
With Soup or Salad: This bread makes a great accompaniment to a warm bowl of soup or a fresh salad.
For Sandwiches: Use slices of this cheese-filled bread to make delicious grilled cheese sandwiches or toasted paninis.
Cooking Tips
Ensure Proper Yeast Activation: Make sure the warm milk is not too hot when activating the yeast. If it’s too hot, it could kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
Use Fresh Cheese: For the best gooey, melty texture, use freshly grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
Let the Dough Rise: Don’t rush the rising process. A longer rise gives the dough better flavor and texture.
Variations to Try
Add Herbs: Mix in some dried herbs like oregano or basil to the dough or sprinkle them on top of the cheese for added flavor.
Use Different Cheese: Swap the mozzarella or cheddar for other cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or provolone for a different taste.
Add Garlic: For garlic lovers, add minced garlic to the butter before brushing the top of the bread, or sprinkle garlic powder on the dough before adding the cheese.
Nutritional Benefits
This cheese-stuffed bread provides a good balance of carbohydrates from the flour, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein and calcium from the cheese. While this bread is indulgent, it can be part of a balanced meal when paired with vegetables or lean protein.

Conclusion
This Cheese-Stuffed Bread is a mouthwatering, indulgent dish that combines soft, fluffy bread with melty cheese in every bite. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a snack, a side dish, or as part of a main meal. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, this cheese-stuffed bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bread ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.

Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of cheese that melts well, like gouda, provolone, or even cream cheese for a creamy filling.

Can I make this bread without an egg wash? Yes, you can skip the egg wash, but it will result in a slightly less glossy top. You can also brush it with olive oil or butter for a golden finish.

Can I freeze the bread? Yes, you can freeze this bread after it’s baked and cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly? Make sure the yeast is fresh and that the dough is in a warm environment to rise. If the dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to expired yeast or too cool of a room.