Oh, the smell of freshly baked bread! It’s one of those simple pleasures that truly fills our home with warmth and love. I remember the first time I stumbled upon a simple cottage cheese bread recipe.
My kids, bless their hearts, were going through a phase where store-bought bread just wasn’t cutting it, and frankly, I wanted something more wholesome for their lunchboxes. That day, staring at a tub of cottage cheese in the fridge and a faint memory of an old cookbook, I decided to experiment. What emerged from the oven was nothing short of miraculous: a golden-crusted, tender-crumbed loaf that disappeared faster than I could slice it.
This homemade cottage cheese bread recipe quickly became a family favorite, a testament to how humble ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s truly a fantastic way to add extra protein and a surprisingly light texture to your homemade loaves. If you’re looking for an easy, nourishing, and utterly delicious bread to bake, this incredible cottage cheese bread recipe is definitely for you.
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cottage cheese bread recipe
- Total Time: 1 hours 05 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This homemade cottage cheese bread recipe quickly became a family favorite, a testament to how humble ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s truly a fantastic way to add extra protein and a surprisingly light texture to your homemade loaves. If you’re looking for an easy, nourishing, and utterly delicious bread to bake, this incredible cottage cheese bread recipe is definitely for you.
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups Warm Water
2 1/4 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
1 cup Cottage Cheese
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Salt
3 1/2 – 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is active and ready to work its magic for this easy cottage cheese bread recipe
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the cottage cheese, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until well combined
- Add Flour Gradually: Begin adding the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook. Continue adding flour until the dough starts to come together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It will be slightly sticky, which is perfect for this simple cottage cheese bread recipe
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 7-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes
- First Rise: Lightly grease a clean large bowl with a little olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size
- Shape the Loaf: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a loaf. You can form it into a traditional oval or a rectangle
- Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf into a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has almost doubled in size and looks puffy. This second rise is crucial for a light and airy homemade cottage cheese bread
- Preheat Oven & Bake: While the dough is on its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once risen, bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown on top and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom
- Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and immediately transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps prevent a gummy texture. Enjoy your fresh cottage cheese bread recipe!
Notes
Always ensure your water is warm, not hot. Water that’s too hot will kill the yeast, preventing your bread from rising. My ideal temperature is like a warm bath for a baby.
When adding flour, do it gradually. Different flours absorb liquid differently, so you might need slightly more or less than indicated. Trust the feel of the dough – it should be tacky but not overly sticky.
Knead thoroughly! Proper kneading develops the gluten, which is key for that wonderful chewiness in your homemade cottage cheese bread. A well-kneaded dough will be smooth and elastic.
For the rises, find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen. On a cold day, I’ll sometimes preheat my oven to its lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and let the dough rise inside.
Don’t skip cooling the bread completely on a wire rack; slicing a warm loaf can compromise its texture.
Once your cottage cheese loaf cools completely, store it in an airtight container or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze slices or the whole loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen homemade cottage cheese bread, simply thaw it at room temperature.
For reheating, you can toast individual slices or warm the whole loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
Keywords: cottage cheese bread, homemade bread, easy bread, protein bread, sandwich bread
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You know that feeling when you discover a recipe that’s both incredibly easy and unbelievably delicious? That’s exactly how you’ll feel about this amazing cottage cheese bread recipe. First off, it’s ridiculously simple.
Even if you’re new to baking bread, you can absolutely master this cottage cheese loaf. Secondly, the texture is out of this world – soft, tender, and slightly chewy, thanks to that unexpected star ingredient, cottage cheese! It truly gives this homemade cottage cheese bread an incredible moistness and adds a subtle richness you won’t find in typical loaves.
Plus, it’s packed with extra protein, making this simple cottage cheese bread recipe a more nourishing choice for your family. This isn’t just a bread recipe; it’s a game-changer for sandwiches, toast, or just a simple snack with a pat of butter. Trust me, once you try this easy cottage cheese bread recipe, you’ll be baking it on repeat.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
Gathering your ingredients for this delightful cottage cheese bread recipe is super straightforward. You probably have most of these staples in your pantry already! This easy cottage cheese bread recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that combine to create something truly special.

| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm Water | 1 1/4 cups (105-115°F) |
| Active Dry Yeast | 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 standard packet) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cottage Cheese | 1 cup (small curd, full-fat recommended) |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 1/2 – 4 cups (plus more for dusting) |
SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
One of the beautiful things about this cottage cheese bread recipe is how adaptable it is! Feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a different texture, try swapping half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour; it creates a heartier homemade cottage cheese bread.
If you prefer, low-fat cottage cheese works well in this easy cottage cheese bread recipe too, though full-fat often yields a slightly richer crumb. Consider adding a tablespoon of dried herbs like dill or chives to the dough for an herbaceous touch. A handful of shredded cheddar cheese mixed in during the last stage of kneading also makes a fantastic savory variation of this simple cottage cheese bread recipe.
You could even sprinkle in some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for extra crunch. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cottage cheese loaf!
Beyond its versatility in baking, cottage cheese shines in many other dishes, especially for a protein-rich start to your day. If you love incorporating this creamy ingredient into your meals, you might enjoy learning how to make Creamy Cottage Cheese Scrambled Eggs.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Ready to bake the best homemade bread? This cottage cheese bread recipe makes the process incredibly enjoyable and rewarding. Follow these simple steps for a perfect loaf every time.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is active and ready to work its magic for this easy cottage cheese bread recipe.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the cottage cheese, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add Flour Gradually: Begin adding the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook. Continue adding flour until the dough starts to come together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It will be slightly sticky, which is perfect for this simple cottage cheese bread recipe.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 7-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Lightly grease a clean large bowl with a little olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a loaf. You can form it into a traditional oval or a rectangle.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf into a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has almost doubled in size and looks puffy. This second rise is crucial for a light and airy homemade cottage cheese bread.
- Preheat Oven & Bake: While the dough is on its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once risen, bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown on top and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and immediately transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps prevent a gummy texture. Enjoy your fresh cottage cheese bread recipe!
PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Achieving a perfect loaf with this cottage cheese bread recipe is totally within reach! Here are a few secrets I’ve learned along the way.

Always ensure your water is warm, not hot. Water that’s too hot will kill the yeast, preventing your bread from rising. My ideal temperature is like a warm bath for a baby. When adding flour, do it gradually.
Different flours absorb liquid differently, so you might need slightly more or less than indicated. Trust the feel of the dough – it should be tacky but not overly sticky. Knead thoroughly!
Proper kneading develops the gluten, which is key for that wonderful chewiness in your homemade cottage cheese bread. A well-kneaded dough will be smooth and elastic. For the rises, find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen.
On a cold day, I’ll sometimes preheat my oven to its lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and let the dough rise inside. Don’t skip cooling the bread completely on a wire rack; slicing a warm loaf can compromise its texture. Following these simple tips will ensure your cottage cheese bread recipe turns out beautifully every time.
Mastering the art of baking bread, like with this recipe, brings immense satisfaction. If you enjoy creating unique baked goods with cottage cheese, you’ll love trying another fantastic recipe for Spinach And Cottage Cheese Flagels.
STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS
This fantastic cottage cheese bread recipe tastes best fresh, but it stores wonderfully too! Once your cottage cheese loaf cools completely, store it in an airtight container or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices or the whole loaf.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen homemade cottage cheese bread, simply thaw it at room temperature. For reheating, you can toast individual slices or warm the whole loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This keeps your delicious cottage cheese bread recipe fresh and ready whenever cravings strike.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE
This versatile cottage cheese bread recipe pairs beautifully with so many dishes! Its tender crumb and slightly savory flavor make it perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

For breakfast, slice up your homemade cottage cheese bread and serve it toasted with butter and jam, or use it as the base for avocado toast.
It’s also incredible alongside scrambled eggs or a veggie omelet. For lunch, this simple cottage cheese bread recipe makes the best sandwiches! Think classic turkey and Swiss, or a vibrant BLT.
It’s also fantastic dipped into a hearty bowl of soup like tomato basil or a chunky minestrone. For dinner, serve slices as a side with pasta dishes, a robust stew, or simply alongside a fresh green salad. You can even cube it and make amazing croutons for your next Caesar salad. This easy cottage cheese bread recipe truly complements almost anything!
The versatility of this bread makes it a wonderful companion to countless dishes, elevating simple meals. For another incredibly adaptable and delicious way to use cottage cheese as a meal centerpiece, explore the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake: 7 Best Ways to Make It Irresistibly Good.
FAQS
Does this cottage cheese bread recipe actually taste like cottage cheese?
No, surprisingly it doesn’t! The cottage cheese melts into the dough during baking, providing incredible moisture, tenderness, and a boost of protein. It doesn’t impart a distinct cottage cheese flavor to the final loaf. This cottage cheese bread recipe offers a mild, slightly savory taste, perfect for many pairings.
Can I make this cottage cheese bread recipe gluten-free?
While this specific cottage cheese bread recipe uses all-purpose flour, you might be able to adapt it with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. However, results can vary significantly with gluten-free flours, so experiment with caution. The texture might be denser than the traditional homemade cottage cheese bread.
How long does this homemade cottage cheese bread last?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container or bread bag, your delicious cottage cheese bread recipe will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this cottage cheese bread recipe in a bread machine?
Yes, you can! Simply add the ingredients in the order recommended by your bread machine manufacturer (usually liquids first, then dry ingredients, with yeast on top). Select the “basic” or “white bread” cycle. This makes the easy cottage cheese bread recipe even simpler.
Cottage cheese, a fresh cheese curd product, has been a staple in diets for centuries, celebrated for its mild flavor and creamy texture. Beyond being a standalone snack, its inclusion in baked goods, such as bread, imparts a unique moistness and subtle tang, while also boosting protein content. This culinary application of cottage cheese showcases its versatility in enhancing both savory and sweet dishes.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
This approximate nutrition information for this cottage cheese bread recipe is based on 12 servings per loaf. Please note that actual values may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient choices.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 220mg |