Cottage Cheese Bread

Course: Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegetarian

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 1 30

Total Time: 1 40

Servings: slices

Calories: 263kcal

Soft, fluffy cottage cheese bread with a hint of tang! My easy recipe creates a moist, tender loaf that's perfect for sandwiches or toasting.

In a small bowl, stir together the yeast, honey, and warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If no bubbles form, discard and start again with fresh yeast.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed/blended cottage cheese, beaten egg, melted butter, and salt until well combined.
Stir in the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer: use the dough hook on medium speed for 6 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size. (For a warm environment, place in a switched-off oven with the light on.)
Punch down the dough, shape it into a smooth log, and place it into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover lightly and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until the dough puffs up over the pan’s edge.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Note: The internal temperature should read 190–200°F when fully baked.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

STORAGE/SHELF LIFE

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.
Reheating: Toast slices or warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to refresh the texture.

TIPS

Use full-fat cottage cheese for a richer, more tender loaf.
Blend or mash the cottage cheese for a smooth texture.
For a lighter loaf, use bread flour. If using all-purpose, start with 2 ¾ cups and add more as needed.
If the dough is too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until manageable.
For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs or a pinch of garlic powder.

VARIATIONS