Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey to Mexico? This Refried and Cheese Bread is not just any ordinary loaf; it's a warm, cheesy embrace that brings together the rich flavors of refried beans and gooey cheese in every bite. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone snack, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress your guests. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread in no time. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover why this bread will become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed and free of lumps.
- In a separate bowl, mix the refried beans and milk until smooth and well blended. The mixture should have a creamy consistency.
- Add the refried bean mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough begins to form.
- Fold in the shredded cheese, mixing gently to distribute evenly throughout the dough. The cheese will add pockets of flavor and moisture to the bread.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 1-2 minutes, just enough to bring the dough together.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, approximately 8 inches in diameter. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a shallow cross on the top of the loaf to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm, optionally with additional butter, salsa, or as a side to your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh refried beans and high-quality cheese. A blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack can elevate the taste even more.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add chopped jalapeños, corn, or herbs to the dough for an extra kick and flavor variation.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your bread is perfectly baked, tap the bottom; it should sound hollow. If it’s not quite there, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Serve Warm: This bread is best enjoyed warm. Serve it straight from the oven with butter, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg