Unveiling The Secrets: How To Create Panera Asiago Cheese Bread At Home

Craving the irresistible cheesy goodness of Panera’s Asiago Cheese Bread? With this comprehensive guide, you can now recreate this beloved bakery treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow our step-by-step instructions and tips to achieve the perfect golden crust, fluffy interior, and abundant cheese filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread Dough:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (105-115°F)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup (120g) shredded Asiago cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Bread Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm milk while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Cheese Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Asiago cheese, Parmesan cheese, butter, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assembling the Bread:

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half.
2. Roll out each half into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Spread the cheese filling evenly over one of the rectangles.
4. Place the second rectangle on top and press down gently to seal the edges.

Shaping the Bread:

1. Cut the bread into 12 equal strips.
2. Twist each strip 2-3 times and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Egg Wash and Baking:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
2. Brush the egg wash over the bread twists.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let Cool and Enjoy:

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Make sure the milk is warm, but not too hot, as this can kill the yeast.
• Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth, as this will help develop gluten and result in a chewier bread.
• Don’t overfill the bread with cheese, as this can make it difficult to twist and seal.
• If you don’t have Asiago cheese, you can substitute it with a similar hard cheese, such as Parmesan or Romano.

Variations

• Garlic Asiago Cheese Bread: Add 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder to the cheese filling.
• Herb Asiago Cheese Bread: Add 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil, thyme, or rosemary to the cheese filling.
• Stuffed Asiago Cheese Bread: Fill the bread twists with your favorite fillings, such as cooked bacon, pepperoni, or vegetables.

The Verdict: Why Panera’s Asiago Cheese Bread Is Worth the Effort

Panera’s Asiago Cheese Bread is a culinary masterpiece that combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its crispy crust, fluffy interior, and generous cheese filling, it’s no wonder why it’s become a beloved treat. By following our step-by-step guide, you can now enjoy this bakery favorite from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re serving it as part of a family meal or as a special treat, Panera’s Asiago Cheese Bread is sure to impress.

FAQ

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes, you can. Use 2 1/4 teaspoons (11g) of active dry yeast and let the dough rise for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper?
A: You can grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray.

Q: How can I store the Asiago Cheese Bread?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.