Calling all cheese lovers! This recipe is for you. Get ready for a taste of Greece with this insanely delicious Feta Cheese Bread. It’s so easy to make, you’ll be whipping it up every day (or at least that’s what we predict will happen ).
This bread is bursting with salty feta cheese and has a beautiful golden brown crust. It’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light lunch. Plus, it’s fun and easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
Ready to embark on this cheesy adventure? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F to 115°F)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 250 grams crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This activates the yeast and ensures your bread will rise beautifully.
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Mix the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead It Out: Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Cheese Time! Punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
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Shape and Second Rise: Starting from a long edge, roll the dough up jelly-roll style, enclosing the cheese filling. Pinch the seam to seal. Tuck the ends of the roll underneath to create a nice, even shape. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
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Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough with olive oil. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
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Enjoy Warm or at Room Temperature: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving. This cheesy delight is delicious warm from the oven, but also holds up well at room temperature.
Tips for Cheesy Perfection:
- Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
- Want a bolder flavor? Add a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme to the dough before the first rise.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
There you have it! This easy Feta Cheese Bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So next time you’re craving a cheesy treat, whip up this recipe and enjoy a taste of Greece in every bite!
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