Making homemade bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. This soft homemade bread recipe features a savory cheesy onion filling, making it perfect for breakfast or as a comforting snack. With simple ingredients and clear steps, even novice bakers can achieve a delightful result. Additionally, this bread can be made in large batches, allowing for sharing or freezing leftover portions for later enjoyment.
Why This Recipe Is Helpful
- Offers a simple way to make fresh, homemade bread.
- The cheesy onion filling provides a satisfying and savory flavor.
- Great for meal prep, as it can be frozen and reheated.
Best For
This recipe is ideal for families who appreciate wholesome, hearty breakfasts or snacks. It’s also a great option for anyone looking to try their hand at bread-making.
Be Careful If
Those with dairy sensitivities should be cautious due to the inclusion of cheese and milk.
Ingredients
- 200 ml (about 3/4 cup) warm water
- 200 ml (about 3/4 cup) warm milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 10 g (about 2 teaspoons) dry yeast
- 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) vegetable oil
- 700 g (about 5.5 cups) wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 50 ml (about 1/4 cup) additional vegetable oil for frying
- 500 g (about 4 cups) onions, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 120 g (about 1 cup) Suluguni cheese, grated
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk for brushing
Ingredient Notes
- Suluguni cheese: This cheese melts well, creating a creamy filling. If unavailable, you can substitute with mozzarella or other melty cheeses.
- Yeast: Ensure the yeast is fresh for the dough to rise adequately.
- Flour type: All-purpose flour works best for soft bread.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Cling film or kitchen towel
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it activate for 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add 100 ml of vegetable oil, sift in 600 g of wheat flour, and salt. Mix until the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually sift in the remaining 100 g of flour, mixing with your hands until the dough is medium-soft. Shape it into a ball.
- Grease a clean bowl with butter, place the dough ball inside, and cover it with cling film and a towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- In the meantime, heat the remaining vegetable oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onions until they turn golden brown. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Transfer the onions to a bowl and allow them to cool.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the gases. Knead it briefly, then divide it into two equal parts and shape each into a ball.
- On a floured work surface, roll out each dough ball into an oblong shape, approximately 40 x 45 cm.
- Place one rolled dough circle on a lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with half of the grated cheese and half of the fried onion mixture. Top with some more cheese.
- Cover with the second dough circle and gently pinch the edges to seal. Brush with a mixture of egg yolk and milk.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown. Enjoy your soft homemade bread warm!
Pro Tips
- Ensure your workspace is well-floured to prevent sticking when rolling out the dough.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs to your onion mixture.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain its texture.
Lighter Swaps
- You could use half the amount of oil or opt for a light cheese option if you prefer.
Common Mistakes
- Not allowing the dough enough time to rise can lead to dense bread.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven can impact the baking process.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delicious on its own or served with a side of soup or salad.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer freshness.
Reheating Tips
Warm the bread in the oven for a few minutes before serving to bring back its freshness.
Nutrition Estimate
Calories: 280
Protein: 7 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fat: 10 g
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: Eastern European
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 280
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses that melt well for varied flavors.
How can I know if my yeast is active?
If it bubbles and expands within the first 5-10 minutes of activation, it’s good to use.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
Make sure to check out this delicious recipe for another wonderful cooking idea!