When I first stumbled upon the idea of incorporating cottage cheese into bread, I was skeptical yet intrigued. Cottage cheese, with its creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor, seemed like an unusual addition to a traditional loaf.
However, the thought of creating a bread that was moist, rich in protein, and packed with a subtle, savory taste was too tempting to resist. After a bit of experimenting in the kitchen, I crafted a recipe that perfectly balances the softness of the bread with the unique flavor of the cottage cheese.
The result is a loaf that’s delicious on its own, but also makes for an excellent base for sandwiches or a delightful companion to a bowl of soup. Join me as we bake a loaf of Cottage Cheese Bread that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Cottage Cheese Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 2 packets active dry yeast (1/4 ounce size)
- 1/4 cup oil (olive oil works well)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 eggs at room temperature
- 2 cups small curd cottage cheese at room temperature
- 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the oil, salt, eggs, cottage cheese, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix each ingredient with a spoon until the dough comes together.
Knead the Dough: Spread some flour on a board or counter and pour the dough out. Knead for about 4 minutes.
Let it Rise: Grease a large crock or bowl with oil, add the dough, and turn it over once to grease both sides. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape and Rise Again: Remove the dough, punch it down, and cut it into two pieces. Knead and shape each piece into a loaf. Place them in two 9 x 5-inch baking pans greased with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 40 minutes.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the loaves for 40 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Brush the bread with melted butter while still hot. Let it cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing and slicing.
Tips and Variations:
- You can use other oils instead of olive oil.
- For a lighter texture, use lite cottage cheese.
- This recipe makes two loaves, but you can easily halve the ingredients to make one loaf.
- You can also add some chopped herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
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Can You Substitute Greek Yogurt For Cottage Cheese
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese in many recipes. Greek yogurt is a popular replacement for cottage cheese due to its high protein content, low calorie count, and mild flavor. Here are some key points to consider:
Nutrition: Greek yogurt and cottage cheese both have high protein content, but cottage cheese generally has more protein per serving. Greek yogurt, on the other hand, contains live and active cultures, which are beneficial for gut health.
Texture: Greek yogurt is smoother and more liquid than cottage cheese, which can be blended to achieve a similar consistency. However, the curd texture of cottage cheese is unique and may not be fully replicated by Greek yogurt.
Flavor: Greek yogurt has a tangier flavor than cottage cheese, which can be beneficial in some recipes but may not be suitable for all applications.
Usage: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese in various recipes, such as smoothies, baked goods, and savory dishes. It is particularly effective in sweet recipes where a creamy texture is desired.
Can you use low-fat cottage cheese instead of full-fat?
Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese in cottage cheese bread recipes. Keep in mind that using full-fat cottage cheese might yield a softer texture and richer flavor. Full-fat cottage cheese has 1.5 grams more of saturated fat compared to 2% cottage cheese but can be the most satisfying choice.
Lower-fat varieties save you a few calories, which may be beneficial if you’re looking to lose weight. However, nonfat cottage cheese may contain less protein and might not be as satisfying. If you choose lower sodium versions, you’ll get similar amounts of all the nutrients.
Good toppings for cottage cheese bread?
Cottage cheese toast can be topped with a variety of ingredients for both sweet and savory flavor combinations. For savory options, consider smoked salmon and capers, basil and tomato, or avocado and egg.
Other ideas include cucumber and pesto, tomatoes and za’atar, or a simple combination of sliced cucumbers and baby tomatoes. You can also add black olive tapenade or beets with goat cheese and fresh dill.
If you prefer sweeter toppings, try cinnamon and sliced banana, honey and sliced almonds, or berries with nut butter. Other sweet options include fresh fruits like strawberries, peaches, or pineapple, with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
You can also add a sprinkle of chia seeds, hemp seeds, toasted coconut flakes, or granola. Another option is to mix strawberry jam directly into the cottage cheese.
Best way to store cottage cheese bread?
To properly store cottage cheese bread, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before wrapping it. For short-term storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator.
This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the bread from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods. Storing it in the fridge will typically keep it fresh for up to 3-5 days.
For long-term storage, freezing is the best option. Wrap each slice or portion tightly in plastic wrap or freezer paper, then place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container.
This prevents freezer burn and helps maintain freshness for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat refrigerated bread in the microwave, covering it with a damp paper towel to restore moisture, or in a skillet or oven at low temperature to prevent drying.
Image Credit: thesouthernladycooks.com
