Description
Honeycomb Bread Stuffed with Cheese is a delightful baked bread featuring soft, fluffy dough balls filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory olives. Arranged in a beehive pattern and topped with sesame seeds, this recipe offers a visually impressive and deliciously cheesy treat perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1.5 cups Warm Water
- 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Filling & Topping
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (or use mozzarella sticks)
- 1 cup Pitted Olives
- 1 large Egg White (optional, for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons Sesame Seeds
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, signaling the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture and stir to combine. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Divide Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide the dough into 30 equal pieces and roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Stuff Dough Balls: Flatten each dough ball with your palm, place about 1 teaspoon of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few pitted olives in the center, then pinch the edges tightly to seal and form a ball again.
- Arrange in Pan: Grease a 10-inch baking pan thoroughly. Arrange the stuffed dough balls closely together in the pan to form a beehive or honeycomb pattern.
- Apply Egg Wash & Sesame: Beat the egg white lightly and brush it gently over the surface of the dough balls. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly on top to add flavor and crunch.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the dough balls turn golden brown and the cheese inside melts beautifully.
Notes
- The egg white wash is optional but helps achieve a glossy and golden crust.
- Use warm water to activate the yeast effectively; too hot or cold water can kill or hinder yeast activity.
- Ensure olives are pitted to avoid any unexpected bites.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone or cheddar for varied flavors.
- Serve warm for the best taste and gooey cheese experience.
