Crusty Cheddar Bread

This yeast-risen bread is made with two types of cheese, cottage and cheddar cheeses, and has a crust with a nice bite.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 (0.25-ounce) package active dry yeast or 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1 cup cottage cheese
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 large egg
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups all-purpose or bread flour

Cooking Directions:

1. In a small dish sprinkle yeast over warm water and let stand for 5 minutes. Gently stir to completely dissolve.
2. In a large bowl combine together cottage cheese, sugar, salt, and egg, with an electric mixer, blend in softened yeast. Add flour in 1/2 cup portions forming a stiff but light dough (may not use all 2 cups of flour). Let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk about 50 to 60 minutes.
3. Butter a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish before punching the dough down, then add shredded cheddar cheese. Turn into the buttered dish and let rise for 30 to 40 minutes, or until almost doubled.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool, then brush the top with melted butter.

Makes 1 loaf.