Cheesy Bread Recipe: Warm, Soft, and Irresistibly Delicious
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cheese bread wafting through your kitchen. It’s golden, soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and packed with gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or party treat, this recipe is simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty soup, fresh salad, or enjoying it on its own, this cheesy bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To make this soft, cheesy bread, gather the following ingredients. This recipe makes one loaf or about 12 rolls, depending on how you shape it.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
Cheese and Herbs:
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix works best)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish and flavor)
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your bread comes out cleanly without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Stir well to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt. Add ¾ of the grated cheese to the mixture, tossing so the cheese is coated with flour. This helps the cheese stay evenly distributed throughout the bread rather than sinking to the bottom.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled so it doesn’t cook the egg prematurely. Once smooth, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky and thick. Avoid overmixing—it can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.
Next, fold in the remaining ¼ cup of cheese and the chopped parsley. This ensures a cheesy, flavorful bite in every slice.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Spoon the dough into the prepared loaf pan. If you prefer rolls, divide the dough into 12 portions and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each roll. For extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top before baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake:
- Loaf: 25–30 minutes
- Rolls: 15–20 minutes
Your cheese bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell of melted cheese and baked bread will fill your kitchen—it’s impossible to resist!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly while keeping the interior soft and fluffy. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Cheese bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or as a hearty snack on its own.
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Options: Mix cheeses for depth of flavor. Sharp cheddar gives tang, mozzarella adds gooey stretch, and a little parmesan on top adds a crisp, golden finish.
- Extra Flavor: Add finely chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the dough. A pinch of cayenne pepper can give a mild kick.
- Make It Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a spicy twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
- Cheesy Crust: Brush the top with melted butter before baking and sprinkle extra cheese for a golden, crispy top.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Bake fresh the next day for warm, cheesy bread any time.
Why You’ll Love This Cheese Bread
- Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, it’s simple enough for any home cook.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or extra cheese to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the soft, cheesy goodness.
Final Thoughts
Cheese bread is more than just a side dish—it’s comfort food at its best. Warm, soft, and loaded with gooey melted cheese, it’s the ultimate treat for any occasion. This recipe is easy, versatile, and almost impossible not to love. Whether you make it as a loaf or rolls, serve it alongside your favorite meal or enjoy it on its own, it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Give this cheese bread recipe a try, and you’ll have a go-to favorite that brings smiles to the table every time. The combination of fluffy bread, melted cheese, and optional herbs or spices is simply irresistible. Once you make it, it may just become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 6–12 (depending on loaf or rolls)