ADVERTISEMENT
Cheese Potato Bread: A Comforting and Flavorful Loaf
There’s something incredibly satisfying about freshly baked bread, especially when it’s loaded with cheesy goodness and the comforting flavor of potatoes. Cheese Potato Bread combines soft, pillowy bread with the creamy richness of mashed potatoes and the savory, melt-in-your-mouth taste of cheese. It’s a perfect choice for any meal—whether you’re serving it alongside soup, enjoying it as a sandwich, or simply snacking on a warm slice with butter.
This recipe takes the traditional potato bread to the next level by incorporating cheese into the dough, making each bite even more flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this savory, cheesy delight!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 medium-sized potato (about 1/2 cup mashed)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for brushing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potato
Start by preparing the mashed potato. Peel the potato and cut it into small chunks. Boil the potato in water until it’s soft and fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and mash the potato until smooth. Allow the mashed potato to cool to room temperature before incorporating it into the dough. The mashed potato helps create a soft, tender crumb in the bread.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step activates the yeast, which will help the dough rise.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potato, melted butter, salt, and egg. Stir to combine. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky, but try not to add too much, as the mashed potatoes already add moisture.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the dough is smooth, gently fold in the shredded cheese. You can use any cheese you like, but a blend of cheddar and mozzarella works wonderfully in this recipe for both flavor and texture. Continue kneading the dough for a minute or two to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is an important step, as it helps the bread become light and airy.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. You can also divide the dough into smaller rolls if you prefer individual portions. To form a loaf, roll the dough into a rectangle and then carefully roll it up tightly, pinching the seams to seal. Place the loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape the dough into a round boule and place it on a baking sheet.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up and fills the pan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
