Introduction

This homemade cheese bread is irresistibly soft and packed with melty, flavorful cheese in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside your favorite meals, it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

The image shows a close-up view of a soft bread loaf with a golden, shiny crust that has a slightly cracked texture. The loaf is sliced open to reveal a gooey, melted cheese layer inside, stretching in thin strings between the top and bottom halves. The inside of the bread is light yellow with a fluffy and airy texture, while the melted cheese is creamy and glossy, pooling slightly on the bottom slice. The bread sits on a white marbled surface with some crumpled parchment paper underneath, highlighting the warm colors and textures of the cheese and bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (one standard packet)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (not hot)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 large egg
1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder or dried herbs for added flavor
1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active. Then add the melted butter, egg, and salt.
Step 2: Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for about 6 minutes.
Step 3: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, until doubled in size.
Step 4: Punch down the dough gently and transfer to a floured surface. Roll or pat it into an 8×14 inch rectangle.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the dough, pressing it in gently. Roll the dough tightly from the short end and pinch the seam to seal.
Step 6: Place the loaf seam-side down into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. If it browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 9: Brush the top with melted butter for a glossy finish. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips & Variations

Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
Use a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for a gooey, tangy cheese bread.
Brush the dough with an egg wash before baking for a shinier crust.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or chopped jalapeños inside for a savory twist.

Storage

Store the cheese bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped bread for up to 1 month. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven until warm and crispy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a freshly baked bread loaf with a golden-brown, crisp top crust that shows a bubbly, textured surface. The bread is sliced open horizontally, revealing a soft, fluffy white inside with melted cheese stretching between the top half and bottom slice. The melted cheese is pale yellow and gooey, filling the middle layer inside the bread. The loaf rests on white parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl of creamy dip topped with green herbs visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but activate the active dry yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy before proceeding with the recipe.

What cheese works best for this bread?

Mozzarella and cheddar blend is a great choice for melting and flavor. You can also experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well.