Description
Bollo Relleno de Queso is a traditional Latin American stuffed bread that is soft, fluffy, and delicious. This recipe features a pillowy dough filled generously with melted cheese, perfect as a comforting snack or a satisfying accompaniment to meals. The bread is baked to a golden brown crust with a tender inside, making it an irresistible treat for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Dough
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 7g instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 250ml warm milk
- 50g butter, softened
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 200g fresh white cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella), shredded or crumbled
Optional
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Divide and Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 8-10 pieces). Flatten each piece into a disk and place a generous amount of the cheese filling in the center. Fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the edges tightly to seal and shape into a smooth ball or oval.
- Second Rise: Place the filled dough pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced apart. Cover again and let them rest for 30-45 minutes to allow a second rise.
- Prepare for Baking: (Optional) Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg for a shiny golden crust.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the bollo relleno de queso for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool slightly before serving to enjoy the warm, melty cheese inside.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheese with any melty cheese like Oaxaca or mozzarella for variations.
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Keep the dough well covered during rising to prevent drying out.
- For a richer flavor, you may add a teaspoon of sugar or a pinch of baking powder to the dough.
- Serve fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor.
