Greek Cheese Bread, also known as Tiropita Bread, is a soft, cheesy, and savory bread inspired by the classic Greek tiropita (cheese pie). Made with a fluffy dough and a rich feta cheese filling, this bread is perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. It’s golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy & Savory – Packed with feta cheese and herbs for a rich, tangy flavor.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a no-fuss dough.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or with soups and salads.
- Authentic Greek Flavors – Inspired by the classic tiropita, but in bread form.
- Customizable – Add different cheeses, herbs, or even a touch of garlic.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Instant yeast
- Warm milk
- Olive oil
- Egg
- Sugar
- Salt
For the Cheese Filling:
- Feta cheese (crumbled)
- Ricotta cheese (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- Egg
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
- Black pepper
For Topping:
- Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
Make the Dough:
- Activate Yeast – In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, olive oil, and egg. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough – Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix crumbled feta, ricotta, egg, parsley (if using), and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Bread:
- Shape the Dough – Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle or divide it into small portions for individual breads.
- Add Filling – Spread or spoon the cheese mixture over the dough.
- Roll or Fold – Either roll it up like a spiral or fold it over like a stuffed flatbread.
- Brush with Egg Wash – Lightly brush the top with an egg wash for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds – (Optional) Adds extra crunch and flavor.
Bake:
- Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake – Place the bread on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve – Let cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Variations
- Extra Cheesy – Add shredded mozzarella or kasseri cheese for extra meltiness.
- Garlic Butter Version – Brush with garlic butter before serving.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
- Whole Wheat Option – Replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- No Yeast Version – Use self-rising flour and skip the yeast for a quicker bread.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Try graviera, gouda, or a mix of feta and cream cheese.
How do I keep the bread soft?
Store it in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temp before baking.
What can I serve with this bread?
It pairs well with soups, salads, or tzatziki for dipping.
Can I make mini versions?
Yes! Shape the dough into small rolls for individual cheese-stuffed buns.
Is this bread similar to tiropita?
Yes! It has the same cheese filling but uses a yeast dough instead of phyllo pastry.
Can I add herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme, oregano, or basil add great flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen bread?
Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C).
How can I make this bread crispier?
Bake it a little longer or broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Can I make this in a bread machine?
Yes! Use the dough setting, then follow the filling and baking steps.
Conclusion
Greek Cheese Bread (Tiropita Bread) is a delicious, cheesy, and savory bread that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, its rich flavors and soft texture will make it a new favorite. Try different cheese combinations, add fresh herbs, and enjoy this irresistible Mediterranean-inspired bread!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Bread, Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Description
This Greek cheese bread, also known as Tiropita Bread, is a soft, fluffy bread loaded with melty cheese and topped with golden, crispy edges. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Topping:
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, egg, and olive oil. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix feta, mozzarella, ricotta, oregano, and black pepper.
- Shape the bread: Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the cheese filling evenly over half. Fold the dough over and seal the edges.
- Bake: Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with egg yolk and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
- Finish & serve: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and slice while warm. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a crunchy top, sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking.
- Can be stored in an airtight container for 3 days or frozen for 2 months.
- Serve with honey or jam for a sweet-savory contrast.
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