Cheese bread is a very popular traditional food in various regions of Latin America, especially in Colombia, where it is known as "pandeyuca" or "yuca bread." Its origin dates back to the fusion of indigenous techniques with ingredients brought by Spanish colonizers, resulting in a recipe that combines cassava starch with delicious local cheeses. In other countries of the region, similar variants have different names: in Venezuela it is called "pan de queso," in Brazil it is known as "pão de queijo," and in Argentina, similar versions are also prepared where cheese is the star ingredient.
This bread is characterized by its soft interior texture and a slightly crispy crust on the outside, thanks to the use of cheeses like cheddar, which provide an intense flavor and an appetizing golden color. Its popularity transcends borders, and it is commonly found in cafes and homes during breakfast or snack time, often accompanied by coffee or tea.
How to Make Crispy Cheddar Cheese Bread
Ingredients: Active dry yeast, water, cottage cheese, sugar, salt, egg, unbleached flour, butter, and cheddar cheese.
Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Stir gently to dissolve completely.
With an electric mixer, mix the softened yeast with the cottage cheese, sugar, salt, and egg.
Add the flour in 1/2-cup portions to form a firm but light dough and let it rest in a warm place until it doubles in size.
Grease a 1 1/2-quart baking pan and punch down the dough, then add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour into the greased pan.
Let it rest for 30 to 40 minutes more or until it almost doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.
Brush the surface with butter.
