Description
This homemade Asiago Cheese Bread is a cheesy, bakery-style loaf inspired by Panera’s favorite. With a golden crust, fluffy interior, and layers of rich Asiago cheese, it’s perfect for sandwiches, soup dipping, or enjoying all on its own. Make it as loaves, rolls, or bread bowls—cheese lovers will rejoice!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
Bread flour (divided)
2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
1½ tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
½ tsp ground black pepper
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
Mix-ins and Toppings:
2¼ cups shredded Asiago cheese (divided use)
1 egg (for egg wash)
2 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Instructions
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, combine 1½ cups flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and pepper.
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Warm Milk & Butter: In a saucepan or microwave-safe cup, heat milk and butter to 120–130ºF, just until butter starts to melt.
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Combine: Add warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients and beat until smooth. Mix in 1¼ cups shredded Asiago cheese.
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Knead the Dough: Switch to the dough hook. Gradually add about 1¾ cups more bread flour. Knead for 5 minutes until dough is soft and slightly sticky.
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First Rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 30–45 minutes).
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Shape Loaves: Punch down dough, divide into 2 equal pieces, and shape into loaves. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Second Rise: Cover loosely and let rise again for 20–30 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 375ºF. Mix egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush loaves, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake 30–35 minutes, until golden and internal temperature reaches 190ºF.
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Cool & Serve: Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Asiago Options: Use aged Asiago for bold, nutty flavor.
Make it Rolls: Divide dough into 12 balls, rise in a greased 9×13 pan, and bake for 22–24 minutes.
Bread Bowls: Divide into 4 balls and bake for soup-ready bread bowls.
Cheese Swaps: Blend in Parmesan or sharp cheddar for flavor variety.
Add Herbs: Mix in rosemary, garlic, or Italian seasoning for extra depth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
