Craving panera’s asiago cheese bread? here’s your step-by-step guide to make it

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and savory flavors of Panera’s iconic Asiago Cheese Bread from the comfort of your own kitchen. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the effortless steps to recreate this beloved bakery staple in your home. Gather your ingredients and prepare to elevate your bread-making skills with this delectable treat.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110-115°F)
• 1 tablespoon (13g) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon (12g) sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour

For the Asiago Cheese Spread:

• 1 cup (120g) shredded Asiago cheese
• 1/2 cup (120g) softened unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) dried oregano

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow the mixture to stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.

2. Combine the Dough Ingredients

Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Asiago Cheese Spread

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded Asiago cheese, softened butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix until well combined.

5. Punch Down the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles.

6. Shape the Bread

Divide the dough in half. Roll out each half into a 12×6-inch (30x15cm) rectangle. Spread the Asiago cheese spread evenly over one half of each rectangle.

7. Second Rise

Cover the bread with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.

8. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

9. Bake the Bread

Bake the bread for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

10. Enjoy!

Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• For a chewier texture, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead. Just follow the instructions on the yeast package.
• To make a vegan version of this bread, use plant-based milk and butter.
• You can also add other ingredients to the Asiago cheese spread, such as chopped bell peppers, onions, or bacon.

Variations

• Asiago Cheese Bread with Spinach and Artichoke: Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the Asiago cheese spread.
• Asiago Cheese Bread with Roasted Red Peppers: Add roasted red peppers to the Asiago cheese spread.
• Asiago Cheese Bread with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add sun-dried tomatoes to the Asiago cheese spread.

The Secret to the Perfect Loaf

• The key to achieving a flavorful and tender Asiago Cheese Bread is to use high-quality ingredients.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can result in a tough bread.
• Allow the bread to rise properly before baking, as this will give it a light and airy texture.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use a bread machine to make this bread?
A: Yes, you can use a bread machine to make this bread. Just follow the instructions in your bread machine manual.

Q: How long can I store this bread?
A: This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this bread?
A: Yes, you can use other types of cheese in this bread, such as Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella.