CHEDDAR CHEESE BREAD

Ingredients:

1/2 cup warm water (105 to 115 degrees F)
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1 tsp sugar
1 cup warm milk (105 to 115 degrees)
2 tbsp butter, room temperature
1 egg, room temperature, beaten
4 cups bread flour, divided use
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt

Directions:

Lightly grease 2 loaf pans.

Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar; let stand 10 minutes.

Stir in warm milk, butter, and beaten egg.

In another bowl, combine 2 cups flour with cheese and salt. Add the yeast mixture and beat for 5 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the remaining 2 cups flour and beat well with a wooden spoon. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 45 minutes).

Stir down dough and turn into prepared pans. Let rise until doubled (about 30 minutes). Brush the loaf with milk, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Bake at 375 degrees F for 30-40 minutes. Remove immediately from pans and cool on wire rack.

Makes 2 loaves