Asiago Cheese Bread Excellent Recipe

Ingredients for Asiago Cheese Bread Excellent

• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• Dry Yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Black Pepper
• 1/2 cup (115g) milk
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter
• Asiago Cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

How to Make Asiago Cheese Bread Excellent

1. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
2. In a separate saucepan, heat 1/2 cup (115g) milk and 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter until the butter is melted and the mixture reaches 120-130°F (49-54°C).
3. Add the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
4. Stir in 1 cup (100g) shredded Asiago cheese.
5. Gradually add about 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, either by hand on a lightly floured surface or using a stand mixer with a dough hook, adding more flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic.
7. Lightly oil a large bowl. Add the dough, turning to coat. Cover with a clean, damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-1.5 hours).
8. Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape into two long, thin loaves.
9. Lightly spray two baking sheets with cooking spray, or grease baguette pans.
10. Place the loaves on the prepared baking sheets. Cover and let rise again until almost doubled (about 30-45 minutes). Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
11. Using a sharp serrated knife, slash the tops of the loaves several times.
12. Brush the loaves with a lightly beaten egg and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup (25g) shredded Asiago cheese.
13. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
14. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.