Asiago Cheese Bread is a savory, homemade bread featuring a crispy cheese-crusted exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Infused with the tangy flavor of Asiago cheese and a hint of black pepper, this bread is perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or pasta dishes. With a golden crust and irresistible aroma, it’s a must-try for bread lovers!
1 ½ cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 ¼ cups shredded Asiago cheese (divided)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Heat the milk and butter: Warm the milk and butter in a microwave-safe bowl until the milk reaches 120-130°F (49-54°C), just enough to activate the yeast.
Combine the mixtures: Stir the milk and butter mixture into the flour mixture and mix until smooth. Add 1 ¼ cups of shredded Asiago cheese and mix until combined.
Knead the dough: Gradually add the remaining flour and knead the dough using a stand mixer for about 5 minutes until the dough is slightly sticky but smooth.
First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let the loaves rise for another 20-30 minutes.
Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaves with an egg wash and sprinkle the remaining Asiago cheese on top.
Bake: Bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown, with an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
Asiago Rolls: Divide the dough into 12 balls and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 22-24 minutes.
Asiago Bread Bowls: Divide the dough into 4 large balls and bake as bread bowls for soups.
Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/asiago-cheese-bread/