Cheese and prune filling bread is not only delicious but also a delightful treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or served with your morning coffee. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheese and prunes to create an irresistible bread that will surely become a favorite in your household.
### Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp milk
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 200g soft cheese (such as cream cheese or goat cheese), crumbled
- 1 cup dried prunes, roughly chopped
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
### Step-by-Step Guide
#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. **Activate Yeast**: Stir in the yeast and mix well to ensure it's evenly distributed among the dry ingredients.
#### Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
1. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: Combine the beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl.
2. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet.
#### Step 3: Knead the Dough
1. **Kneading Process**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
2. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a clean, oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise until doubled in size, which should take about an hour.
#### Step 4: Prepare the Filling
1. **Mix Cheese and Prunes**: In another mixing bowl, combine crumbled cheese, chopped prunes, and ground cinnamon.
2. **Even Distribution**: Set aside this mixture for later use.
#### Step 5: Shape the Bread
1. **Divide Dough**: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions.
2. **Roll Out Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and 8 inches wide by 12 inches long.
#### Step 6: Add Filling
1. **Spread Mixture**: Evenly spread the cheese and prune mixture on one half of each rolled-out dough.
2. **Fold Over**: Fold the uncovered half over the filling, sealing it tightly to prevent any spilling during baking.
#### Step 7: Bake the Bread
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. **Place on Baking Sheet**: Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. **Second Rise**: Allow the bread to rise for another 30 minutes before baking.
4. **Bake Bread**: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
### Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the cheese and prune filling.
- You can also use raisins instead of prunes if you prefer.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed walnuts on top before baking for an extra crunch.
### Conclusion
Cheese and prune filling bread is a comforting treat that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it's served as a snack or paired with your morning coffee, this recipe will surely satisfy any sweet tooth! Try out these detailed steps to create delicious, homemade cheese and prune filling breads today.