This Cottage Cheese Bread is soft, fluffy, and super easy to make! With cottage cheese mixed right into the dough, it brings a tasty twist to your regular bread.
I love how the cottage cheese keeps the bread moist, and it’s perfect for sandwiches or toast. Plus, who can say no to warm bread fresh from the oven? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: The star of this bread! You can use full fat for richer flavor or low fat for a lighter option. If you prefer, ricotta cheese or even Greek yogurt can substitute for a similar texture but a different flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour: This is your go-to for bread making. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap half of it for whole wheat flour. Just note it might give the bread a denser texture.
Active Dry Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for best results. If you have instant yeast, feel free to use it without dissolving it first. Just add it directly to the flour mix!
Milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast. If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or any plant-based milk will work fine, but warm it slightly before adding.
How Do I Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading helps develop the gluten, giving the bread its structure. If you’re unsure how to do it, follow these simple steps:
- Flour your surface lightly to prevent sticking.
- Push the dough away from you with the heels of your hands.
- Fold it over itself, quickly rotate it a quarter turn, and repeat.
- Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should bounce back when poked!
Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of flour during kneading if the dough feels too sticky. Just be cautious not to overdo it, or your bread may turn out dense.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bread?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by about 2 to 2.5 hours for rising and baking. The wait is worth it as the end result is a delightful, fluffy bread that you can enjoy warm from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast:
Start by adding the sugar to the warm milk in a small bowl. Next, sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This tells you that the yeast is alive and ready to help your bread rise!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the salt and ensures a consistent flavor throughout the bread.
3. Mix Cottage Cheese & Butter:
In a separate bowl, beat the cottage cheese and melted unsalted butter together until they’re well combined. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your bread.
4. Combine Everything Together:
Now add the yeast mixture and the cottage cheese mixture into the bowl with the flour. Stir everything together until a dough starts to form. Use your hands if necessary to bring it all together.
5. Knead the Dough:
Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for around 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, just add a little more flour until it’s manageable.
6. Let It Rise:
Form your kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
7. Shape the Loaf:
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release any air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; it will rise again!
8. Second Rise:
Cover the loaf pan again and leave it to rise for another 30-45 minutes until it looks puffy. This step is important for achieving that airy texture.
9. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread starts baking at the right temperature.
10. Egg Wash & Topping:
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it lightly over the top of the loaf. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a lovely touch and flavor!
11. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Test it by sticking a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean!
12. Cool Before Slicing:
When done, remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool. It’s best to wait a bit before slicing to let the texture settle. Enjoy!
Now you have a delicious Cottage Cheese Bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead of Full-Fat?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works well in this recipe and will still keep your bread moist. Just remember that the flavor may be slightly different.
What Should I Do If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to inactive yeast. Make sure to check the expiration date on the yeast package. Additionally, ensure the milk was warm enough but not too hot, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients and fiber. Just keep in mind that your bread may come out denser than using all-purpose flour.
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover Cottage Cheese Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it!