Cheddar Braids
Indulge in the irresistible charm of homemade Cheddar Braids, a stunningly braided bread filled with gooey, melted sharp cheddar cheese. This recipe combines the art of bread-making with a cheesy twist, creating a soft, golden loaf that's both visually striking and irresistibly delicious. Perfectly suited for gatherings or as a hearty snack, the tender dough is enriched with a hint of sweetness and buttery richness, then braided with cheese-filled strands for a delightful pull-apart experience. A golden egg wash lends a shiny finish, while optional sesame seeds add a subtle nuttiness and crunch. With easy-to-follow instructions and just 20 minutes of hands-on prep time, Cheddar Braids are an impressive yet approachable recipe that’s sure to become a beloved favorite for bread lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1 cup Warm water
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
- 1 Large egg
- 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is frothy.
Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal portions.
Roll each portion into a long rope, approximately 16 inches long.
Flatten each rope slightly using a rolling pin, then fill the center with about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese. Pinch the edges firmly to seal the cheese inside, forming a filled rope.
Lay the three filled ropes parallel to each other on the prepared baking sheet. Pinch one end together and braid the ropes, pinching the opposite end to seal the braid.
Brush the braided dough with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the braid is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Slice and enjoy warm!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
378 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.6 g | 23% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.4 g | 52% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 92 mg | 31% | |
| Sodium | 445 mg | 19% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.7 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.4 g | ||
| Protein | 14.3 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 239 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 83 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
