Irresistible Georgian Cheese Cushion Bread: Cheesy and Fluffy Delight

Georgian Cheese Cushion: A Decadent Yeast Bread Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Description: Have you been longing to bake something truly impressive and mouthwateringly delicious? This Georgian Cheese Cushion is a showstopper—a glorious, cheesy loaf that is sure to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. Its rich flavor and fluffy texture make it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. The total cooking time encompasses both the baking and dough rising periods.

Category: Yeast Breads
Keywords: Breads, Cheese, High Protein, Oven, < 4 Hours

Ingredients

• 2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup dry milk powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups shredded muenster cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

   • Begin by dissolving the yeast in the warm water in a large mixing bowl. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Prepare the Dough:

   • Stir in the sugar, dry milk powder, and salt until well combined.
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour and bread flour, a little at a time, until the dough forms a firm but pliable consistency.

3. Incorporate the Butter:

   • Work the softened butter into the dough, adding it one tablespoon at a time. Continue until the butter is fully absorbed and the dough becomes smooth.

4. Knead the Dough:

   • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for approximately 10 minutes. If necessary, add more flour to keep the dough from sticking. You want it to be smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise:

   • Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat it with grease. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

6. Prepare the Cheese Filling:

   • While the dough is rising, beat the eggs (saving 2 tablespoons for glazing). In a food processor or mixing bowl, blend the shredded muenster cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, remaining butter, eggs, and chopped parsley until smooth.

7. Assemble the Cushion:

   • Butter a 9-inch round cake pan or a casserole dish that is 1.5 to 2 inches deep.
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 20-inch diameter circle on a floured surface.
   • Transfer the dough to the prepared cake pan, pressing it firmly against the sides.

8. Fill and Shape:

   • Mound the cheese filling in the center of the dough.
   • Fold the edges of the dough up around the filling, creating pleats as you go. You should have about 10 pleats around the top.
   • Gather the pleats together at the top and twist them to form a topknot.

9. Final Rise and Bake:

   • Let the assembled cushion rest for 10 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Brush the reserved 2 tablespoons of beaten egg over the top of the dough.
   • Bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

10. Cool and Serve:

    • Remove the cushion from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

This Georgian Cheese Cushion is perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful treat to elevate your everyday meals. With its cheesy center and beautifully braided top, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the process of making this delicious bread and savor every cheesy, flaky bite! 🍞🧀