Effortless Mastoris Cheese Bread Recipe for Homemakers

From the name itself, Mastoris' cheese bread screams goodness! If you're looking for a delightful baked bread, you've landed in the perfect spot. The Mastoris cheese bread recipe is incredibly easy to whip up.

A beloved creation from Mastoris Diner & Restaurant in New Jersey, the cheese bread still holds a special place in the hearts of locals, even after the restaurant closed in January 2022.

The enduring appeal of Mastoris' cheese bread lives on, and fortunately, enthusiasts can recreate this delectable baked delight in the comfort of their own homes.

A basket of cheesy bread | Source: Shutterstock

Mastoris' cheese bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The cheese is creamy and gooey. It boasts a perfect blend of flavors – savory with a hint of saltiness and exceptionally comforting taste.

Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this baked good is a crowd-pleaser that will impress family and guests. Making Mastoris' cheese bread is a breeze, and the recipe below proves it.

Mastoris Cheese Bread Recipe

Equipment and tools:

• mixing bowl
• damp towel
• measuring cup
• measuring spoon
• baking pan
• oven
• wire rack
• serving plate

Ingredients for the Dough:

• 1/2cup lukewarm milk
• 1/4 cup lukewarm water
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons Red Star Instant Active Yeast (recommended)
• 3 cups King Arthur All-Purpose flour (recommended)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for the Cheese Filling:

• 8 ounces of Philadelphia Cream Cheese (recommended)
• 1/2 cup powdered Sugar
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Watkin's Vanilla Extract (recommended)

Instructions for Making the Dough:

1. Combine lukewarm milk and water, white sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Allow it to rest until it becomes bubbly.
2. Add the remaining dough ingredients (flour, unsalted butter, egg, salt, and vanilla extract). Mix and knead them together until you achieve a soft, smooth dough.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turn it over, and cover it with a damp towel. Allow the dough to rise, covered, for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until it becomes puffy (it may not necessarily double in size).

Instructions for Making the Filling:

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing all the filling ingredients (cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, flour, and vanilla extract) until the mixture is smooth.
2. Chill the filling until you're ready to use it.

Instructions for Assembling the Bread:

1. Transfer the risen dough to a lightly floured surface, punch it down, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough into a 16 x 12-inch rectangle.
3. Transfer the rolled dough to a baking pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the cheese filling lengthwise down the center third of the dough.
5. Cut 1 to 3-inch-wide strips from each side of the filling to the edges of the dough.
6. Fold about an inch of dough at each end over the filling to encase it, then fold the strips, at an angle, across the filling, alternating from side to side.

Baking and Serving:

To perfect Mastoris' cheese bread, pay attention to the dough's proper rising and ensure a generous cheese filling, all while fine-tuning baking times for that coveted golden hue.

The cheese bread is best paired with warm tomato soup, a crisp salad for balance, garlic butter dip, fruit slices, or potato wedges for a sweet or savory touch.

If you end up with leftovers, keep them fresh by wrapping each piece in foil or plastic. Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for 2-3 days or freeze for longer enjoyment.

Besides this tasty bread, enjoy another round of savory delight and try Gordon Ramsay's Lasagne recipe!