Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe

If you ever find yourself craving a bread that’s bursting with cheesy goodness, the Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. This loaf combines the nutty, tangy flavor of Asiago cheese with a tender, soft crumb and a golden crust that’s just irresistibly inviting. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or using it to elevate your favorite sandwiches, this bread will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s a delightful treat that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy all at once, making every bite a moment to savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether it’s enriching the dough, adding flavor, or creating that perfect chewy crust. Get ready to bring a few essential pantry staples together for something truly spectacular.

• Bread flour: Provides the perfect gluten structure for a chewy crumb with a great rise.
• Instant yeast: Ensures a reliable and quick rise for your bread without any hassle.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the dough.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle touch of sweetness for depth.
• Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle, spicy kick that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Milk: Enriches the dough, contributing to tenderness and a rich crumb.
• Butter: Grasps that buttery softness and adds flavor complexity.
• Asiago cheese: Both mixed into the dough and sprinkled on top, it delivers bold, nutty, and slightly sharp notes.
• Egg (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden crust that’s simply stunning.
• Water (for egg wash): Thins the egg to perfect glaze consistency.

How to Make Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by combining 1½ cups of bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and black pepper in your stand mixer bowl. This dry mixture builds the flavorful base of the dough, where all the spices and leavening find their perfect balance.

Step 2: Warm Milk and Butter

Gently heat the milk and butter together until the butter just melts, reaching about 120–130ºF. This warmth activates the yeast without burning it, and the butter helps create a tender crumb with a rich taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the warm milk-butter mixture to the dry ingredients and beat until you get a smooth batter. Then, fold in 1¼ cups of shredded Asiago cheese, making the dough luscious and deeply flavorful right from the start.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Using the dough hook attachment, gradually add about 1¾ cups more bread flour as you knead. Work the dough for around 5 minutes until it’s soft but still slightly sticky. This texture promises a soft yet structured loaf that’s chewy and satisfying.

Step 5: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this will take roughly 30 to 45 minutes. This first rise is where the dough develops its airy lightness and wonderful flavor depth.

Step 6: Shape Loaves

Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles, then divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a loaf and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Shaping with care sets the stage for a beautiful, uniform rise in the oven.

Step 7: Second Rise

Let the shaped loaves rest, covered loosely, for another 20 to 30 minutes. This final proofing ensures your bread becomes perfectly fluffy and tender once baked.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Prepare an egg wash by mixing the egg with water, then brush it generously over the loaves. Sprinkle the remaining Asiago cheese on top for that signature crispy, cheesy crust. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the loaves are golden and the internal temperature hits 190ºF. The aroma while baking is a clear sign you’re moments away from bread heaven.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bread to cool slightly on a rack before slicing. This rest lets the crumb set just right. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe will impress anyone lucky enough to grab a slice.

How to Serve Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, try sprinkling some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme atop the bread just before baking. These aromatic additions complement the Asiago’s nutty profile beautifully. You can also brush the crust with a little garlic butter right after baking for a savory twist that’s incredibly fragrant.

Side Dishes

Asiago Cheese Bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups such as tomato basil or creamy potato leek. It also shines alongside a fresh green salad or alongside charcuterie and olives for a simple yet elegant spread. This bread’s richness balances light and rustic dishes alike.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to surprise guests? Slice the bread thickly and use it for grilled cheese sandwiches with caramelized onions and mixed greens. Or cube it for flavorful croutons that bring a cheesy punch to any salad or stew. The cheesy crust can even be chopped and sprinkled over pasta dishes for added texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Asiago Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or a reusable bread bag. Store it at room temperature for up to two days, where it will stay soft and flavorful. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bread quickly.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully either whole or sliced. Wrap it well in foil or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature or warm it gently in the oven to revive that fresh-baked texture.

Reheating

To bring day-old bread back to life, preheat your oven to 350ºF and warm the bread for about 10–15 minutes. For slices, a quick toast works wonders. Reheating not only warms the bread but also helps refresh its delightful aroma and crusty exterior.

FAQs

Can I use regular cheese instead of Asiago in this recipe?

While Asiago cheese gives this bread its distinctive nutty and tangy flavor, you can experiment with Parmesan or sharp cheddar for variations. Just keep in mind that these cheeses will alter the taste profile slightly, so Asiago is best if you want the classic experience.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. Combine the ingredients in a bowl and knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and soft. It’s a bit more workout but very satisfying.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

The internal temperature should reach 190ºF, but if you don’t have a thermometer, look for a golden-brown crust that sounds hollow when tapped underneath. The cheese on top will be melted and slightly crisp, signaling it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Can I add herbs or spices directly to the dough?

Definitely! Adding finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of garlic powder to the dry ingredients will infuse the bread with additional layers of flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the Asiago cheese’s natural flavor.

What’s the best way to slice this bread for sandwiches?

Wait until the bread has cooled somewhat to avoid squishing the crumb. Use a serrated bread knife to cut even slices about ¾ to 1 inch thick, perfect for hearty sandwiches that hold up to savory fillings.

Final Thoughts

This Asiago Cheese Bread Recipe is a glorious way to bring warmth and rich, cheesy flavor into your kitchen. It’s approachable for bakers of all levels and rewards you with a loaf that’s sure to become a crowd favorite. Next time you want bread that’s seriously delicious but still homey and comforting, give this recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!

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