Bread with curd cheese
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
From ingredients
6 products
Cheese & Seasonings
SIMPLE PROCESS
Step by step recipe
The secret is proper yeast activation: use warm water (about 35°C) and let the yeast bloom. Cream cheese makes the crumb tender, while oregano adds a Mediterranean touch. Don’t skip the proofing – 2 hours at room temperature ensure lightness. Bake at high heat for a crispy crust.
Activate the yeast
In warm water (220 ml, 35°C), dissolve the sweetener (50 g) and yeast (14 g). Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Knead the dough
In a bowl, mix flour (500 g), cream cheese (200 g), and dried oregano (3 g). Pour in the yeast mixture and knead into a soft, slightly sticky dough. Add extra flour if needed.
Shape the baguettes
Divide the dough into 3 equal parts. Roll each into a rectangle, roll up and seal the edges, shaping into baguettes.
Proof
Place the baguettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and leave in a warm place for 2 hours until doubled in size.
Bake
Preheat oven to 230°C. Score the baguettes diagonally. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
CHEF'S TIP
Activate yeast properly
Water should be warm (not hot), around 35°C. If too hot, yeast dies; if cold, they won't activate. Let the mixture stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Don't over-flour
The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Add flour gradually – you may need less or more depending on the flour's humidity.
Give the dough time to rest
Proofing is crucial. Leave the shaped baguettes in a warm place for 2 hours. They should double in size. Don't shorten this step.
Use parchment paper
Line the baking sheet with parchment to prevent sticking and make it easier to transfer the baked bread to a wire rack.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Add your taste
- Replace cream cheese with ricotta Ricotta gives a lighter, more delicate texture. Use the same amount (200 g / 7 oz).
- Use herbes de Provence instead of oregano Herbes de Provence (rosemary, thyme, basil) offer a more complex aroma.
- Add seeds or olives Fold in 50 g of sunflower seeds or chopped olives for added texture and flavor.
- Whole wheat flour option Replace half or all of the flour with whole wheat – it's healthier, but you may need more water.
HOW TO STORE
How to Store Cream Cheese Bread
Cool completely on a wire rack, then wrap in a paper towel or cloth and place in a bag. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
GOOD TO KNOW