Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional for extra lift)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the cottage cheese and milk over low heat until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter.
3. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese mixture, egg, salt, and activated yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, adding flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape and Second Rise:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, cover, and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
7. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This Cottage Cheese Bread is soft, slightly tangy, and perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads!