If you’ve never tried Georgian Cheese-Filled Bread, then get ready for a flavor experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Georgia (the country, not the state!). This bread is so good, it should come with a warning: once you take that first bite, you won’t be able to stop. Picture this: a soft, golden-brown crust, filled with gooey, melted cheese that’s perfectly balanced with just a hint of tangy flavor. It’s a bread lover’s dream come true.

This traditional Georgian dish, known as Khachapuri, is the ultimate comfort food. It’s like pizza but better (yes, I said it). The combination of fresh dough and rich cheese is downright irresistible. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re looking to serve it at a dinner party, brunch, or just want to treat yourself to something indulgent, this bread is sure to be a hit.

Let’s dive in and start making this cheesy masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love Georgian Cheese-Filled Bread

Rich, Savory Flavor:

The filling is a delightful mix of cheeses, creating a rich and savory experience. The cheese melts beautifully inside the soft, pillowy dough, making every bite a cheesy, gooey delight.

Flaky, Golden Crust:

The crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing the perfect balance to the cheese filling. It’s the kind of bread that you can’t help but break apart and savor.

Perfect for Any Meal:

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side, or just as a snack, this bread fits every occasion. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal, but light enough to enjoy as part of a spread.

Customizable:

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to make this bread your own! While traditional Khachapuri uses specific cheeses, you can add your favorites—think mozzarella, feta, or even a little goat cheese for an extra twist.

Fun to Make:

It’s a super fun bread to make with friends or family, especially if you’re into hands-on cooking. Stretching and shaping the dough, and then stuffing it with cheese, is an interactive and satisfying experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your very own Georgian Cheese-Filled Bread:

For the Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough, creating a soft, pillowy texture.
• Instant Yeast: This is what gives the dough its airy texture and helps it rise quickly.
• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps bring the dough together.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar to feed the yeast and help it activate.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread and balances the richness of the cheese filling.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness to the dough and helps create a golden, crispy crust.
• Greek Yogurt: Gives the dough a slight tang and makes it extra soft and tender.

For the Cheese Filling:

• Mozzarella: The classic melty cheese that forms the gooey base of the filling.
• Feta: Adds a bit of tang and saltiness to balance the richness of the mozzarella.
• Ricotta Cheese: Light and creamy, it helps make the filling soft and luxurious.
• Egg: This helps bind the cheese together and gives it a creamy, custardy texture when baked.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, just to bring out the cheese’s flavor.
• Fresh Dill (optional): Adds a fresh, herby note that pairs beautifully with the cheese.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on this cheesy bread that’s sure to wow everyone at the table!

Make the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add olive oil and yogurt to the yeast mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 7-10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
5. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Cheese Filling:

6. Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the mozzarella, feta, and ricotta cheese. Stir until well blended.
7. Add the Egg: Beat one egg and mix it into the cheese mixture to help bind it all together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add fresh dill if desired.

Shape and Assemble the Bread:

8. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/2-inch thick.
10. Add the Cheese Filling: Spread half of the cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Shape the Bread: Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling to form a boat-like shape. Pinch the edges together to seal, leaving the center open.
12. Brush with Egg Wash: Beat the second egg and brush it over the dough to give it a golden, glossy finish.

Bake the Bread:

13. Bake: Place the shaped bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling inside.
14. Serve: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven!

How to Serve Georgian Cheese-Filled Bread

This Georgian Cheese-Filled Bread is perfect for so many occasions. Here are some ideas to serve it:

As a Main Dish:

Serve it as a hearty main for lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a tangy tomato soup to balance the richness of the cheese.

For Breakfast or Brunch:

Slice it up and serve it as part of a brunch spread. Its cheesy, warm goodness makes it a perfect addition to eggs, fresh fruit, or yogurt.

With Fresh Herbs:

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh, green contrast to the richness of the cheese.

As a Snack:

Perfect as a snack on its own, or you could serve it alongside a dip—perhaps a tomato-based sauce, yogurt dip, or even some olive tapenade for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead:

You can prepare the dough and cheese filling ahead of time. Simply store the dough in the fridge after its first rise, and the filling in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before assembling the bread.

Customize the Filling:

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like adding gouda, provolone, or even some parmesan for a bit of a sharper flavor. You can also add spinach, herbs, or even a little garlic to the filling for extra flavor.

Freezing:

This bread freezes beautifully! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked bread and then bake it straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Dairy-Free Option:

To make this bread dairy-free, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use a non-dairy yogurt in the dough.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different kind of cheese?

A1: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta or ricotta, you can substitute with other cheeses like goat cheese, provolone, or even cheddar. Just make sure the cheese melts well!

Q2: Can I make this bread ahead of time?

A2: Yes, you can make the dough and cheese filling ahead of time. Assemble and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: What if I don’t have instant yeast?

A3: You can use active dry yeast instead. Just make sure to activate it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dough.

Q4: Can I make this bread in individual servings?

A4: Yes! You can divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into individual rounds for single-serve portions.

Q5: What if I can’t find Greek yogurt?

A5: You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or regular yogurt. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still work well.

Q6: Can I freeze this bread?

A6: Yes, you can freeze the bread! After baking, let it cool, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Q7: How can I get a crispier crust?

A7: For a crispier crust, you can place a baking stone in the oven while it preheats, and bake the bread on that. It helps create a crisp

ier bottom.

Q8: Can I make a larger batch of this bread?

A8: Absolutely! Just double the recipe and bake in larger quantities. Make sure you have a big enough baking sheet for all the bread.

Q9: How should I store leftovers?

A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. You can also refrigerate it and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Q10: What can I serve with this bread?

A10: This bread is great on its own or served with a side salad, some grilled vegetables, or a hearty soup.

CONCLUSION

Enjoy making and eating this irresistible Georgian Cheese-Filled Bread! It’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this bread will always impress!

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