This Cottage Cheese Bread is a soft and fluffy delight! Made with creamy cottage cheese, it’s perfect for toasting or enjoying with butter.
It’s amazing how a simple ingredient can make bread so tasty! I love making a batch to snack on throughout the week—it’s too good to resist! 🥖✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the show! It keeps the bread moist and adds a slight tang. If you want a dairy-free version, you could try using silken tofu blended until smooth, or a dairy-free yogurt.
Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Just keep in mind that it might alter the texture slightly, so add a bit more liquid if the dough seems too dry.
Active Dry Yeast: If you don’t have this on hand, you can use instant yeast instead, using the same amount. This will give your bread a good rise without waiting too long. Always check the expiration date for a successful rise!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my favorite for baking because it allows you to control the saltiness. If you are avoiding dairy, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can be good alternatives!
What’s the Best Way to Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading is essential for getting that perfect bread texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a clean, floured surface and place your dough on it.
- Press the dough with the heels of your hands to flatten it, then fold it over itself.
- Turn the dough a quarter turn and repeat. Do this for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- If you’re using a stand mixer, let the dough hook do the work for you—just make sure it doesn’t overmix!
And remember, the dough will feel a bit sticky at first—this is normal! Don’t add too much flour. A well-kneaded dough is the key to fluffy bread.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (240g) cottage cheese, drained
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or other seeds for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time. You’ll also need around 2 to 2.5 hours total for rising and baking—1 to 1.5 hours for the first rise and an additional 30-45 minutes for the second rise plus baking time. A little patience leads to wonderful homemade bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast, along with a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is working and will help your bread rise!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix it well to distribute the salt and sugar evenly.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the drained cottage cheese, warm milk, softened butter, and the yeast mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If you prefer, you can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6-7 minutes.
5. First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. Keep an eye on it—this is the magic happening!
6. Preheat the Oven:
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, the oven will be ready when your bread is shaped and ready to bake!
7. Shape the Loaf:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
8. Second Rise:
Cover the shaped loaf again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. You should see it puff up a bit—that’s good! It’s almost ready to bake.
9. Prepare for Baking:
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of your loaf for a nice golden color. If you’re using sesame seeds (or any seeds), sprinkle them over the top before baking.
10. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps retain the bread’s lovely texture!
Enjoy your fluffy, soft Cottage Cheese Bread—perfect for sandwiches or simply buttered! You’ll love it! 🍞💖
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese can be used in this recipe without altering the flavor too much. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, check that your yeast is fresh and active. Ensure that you used warm (not hot) water for activating the yeast. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warmer spot, like near an oven or in a turned-off microwave.
Can I Freeze This Bread?
Yes, you can freeze Cottage Cheese Bread! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer bag. It should last for about 3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before slicing!
How to Serve This Bread?
This bread is versatile! Enjoy it toasted with butter, make sandwiches, or use it as a side for soups and salads. It also pairs well with spreads like cream cheese or avocado for breakfast or snacks!
