Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of warm, gooey cheese wrapped in soft, pillowy bread, then you are going to absolutely love this Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe. This traditional Georgian delight combines a boat-shaped bread stuffed with a luscious blend of farmers cheese, mozzarella, and feta, topped with a perfectly baked egg that bursts with creamy goodness when mixed. Each bite offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that feels like a comforting hug from the inside out. Whether it’s for brunch, a snack, or a fun dinner idea, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful journey into Georgian cuisine right from your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor profile. Every component plays a vital role, from the tender dough to the rich cheese filling and the luscious egg finishing touch. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comfort food classic to life:

• Salt: Just the right amount to enhance flavors without overpowering the delicate cheese blend.
• Dry active yeast: Crucial for giving the dough its lovely rise and light texture.
• Granulated sugar: A subtle touch to feed the yeast and balance the savory notes.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for creating that soft, yet chewy bread dough.
• Water: Warmed to activate the yeast, important for the dough’s perfect elasticity.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness, helping the crust brown beautifully.
• Olive oil: Keeps the dough tender and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
• Farmers cheese: A mild, fresh cheese that forms the heart of the filling.
• Shredded mozzarella: Provides that iconic melty stretch and creamy texture.
• Feta cheese: Adds a tangy bite to balance the cheeses and give complexity.
• Eggs: Four for the filling and one extra for the egg wash to create a glossy crust.
• Unsalted butter (optional): Placed on top to enrich each warm bite with silky smoothness.

How to Make Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

Begin by combining the salt, dry active yeast, sugar, and flour in the bowl of your stand mixer. Heat the water and milk to about 115°F—warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills it—and pour this over the dry ingredients. This mix kickstarts the magic that transforms simple ingredients into a supple, rising dough.

Step 2: Knead Until Smooth

With your dough hook attachment, knead the mixture until you see a nearly smooth and elastic texture forming. At the end, add the olive oil and knead for another minute to weave it perfectly into the dough. This addition makes the bread soft and tender after baking.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Lightly coat a deep bowl with olive oil, place your dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap. Set it somewhere warm and cozy for about an hour until the dough doubles in size. This rising step is essential for the bread’s light and airy quality.

Step 4: Punch Down and Rest

After the first rise, remove the plastic wrap and gently press the dough a few times to release air pockets. Cover it again and let it rest in a warm place for another 30 minutes. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, making rolling out much easier.

Step 5: Mix the Cheese Filling

While the dough is resting, blend the farmers cheese, shredded mozzarella, and feta cheese together until well combined. This melty, tangy trio is the essence of the Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe’s addictive flavor.

Step 6: Shape the Dough Boats

Flour your surface and divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece out into a 9-inch circle, then fold two opposite edges inward to form a surprised little boat. Pinch the corners so they are watertight and ready to cradle all that cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Fill and Egg Wash

Place each shaped dough boat onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each one. Next, beat an egg with a little water and brush this egg wash over the exposed dough edges to help it bake to a glorious golden shine.

Step 8: First Bake

Slide the trays into a 450°F oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until the crust is perfectly golden and inviting. You’re well on your way to cheesy bread bliss!

Step 9: Add the Final Egg

Using the back of a spoon, gently create a shallow well in the center of each Khachapuri, then carefully crack an egg into it. Dot a few small bits of unsalted butter on top of the cheese to add richness as it bakes.

Step 10: Finish Baking

Return the Khachapuri to the oven and bake for another 5 to 6 minutes. Keep a close eye—the goal is for the egg whites to set just enough while the yolks stay deliciously runny.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, grab a fork and swirl the melted cheese and egg filling together right inside the bread boat. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the creamy, savory joy that only this Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe delivers.

How to Serve Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

While this bread shines on its own, feel free to jazz it up with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill to brighten the flavors. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a sneaky little kick that complements the richness perfectly. For a glossy finish, a tiny pat of butter on top after baking enhances the indulgence.

Side Dishes

Mary your Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe with fresh salads like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad tossed in lemon juice and olive oil, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Light soups or pickled veggies from Georgian cuisine pair wonderfully too, offering contrasting textures and layers of flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring some fun to your table by serving these cheese boats family-style, letting everyone dig in and discover the melty center. For a crowd, you could make mini khachapuris as appetizers or assemble a Khachapuri board with different cheese fillings alongside olives, nuts, and fresh herbs. It’s all about celebrating this delightful bread in playful ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Khachapuri left (which can be rare!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep the bread from drying out too much.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the fully baked Khachapuri by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to an airtight container or freezer bags. Frozen Khachapuri remain delicious for up to 1 month and can be thawed overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat your Khachapuri in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and the crust re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and compromise the beautiful textures.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with farmers cheese, mozzarella, and feta, you can experiment with similar melty cheeses like ricotta, halloumi, or even a sharp white cheddar. Just keep a balance between creamy and tangy for best results.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Yes! You can mix the dough by hand using a large bowl and a wooden spoon, then knead it on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It’s a bit more work but equally rewarding.

Can I make individual smaller Khachapuris?

Definitely. Divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the crust and egg for doneness. Mini khachapuris are perfect for parties or appetizers.

What does Khachapuri mean?

Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian dish whose name translates roughly to “cheese bread” from Georgian. It’s a beloved staple that showcases the country’s rich cheese heritage and baking traditions.

Should the egg yolk be runny or cooked through?

The classic Khachapuri experience features a runny egg yolk that you mix into the cheese filling at the table for a silky texture. However, you can cook it a bit longer if you prefer a firmer egg.

Final Thoughts

This Khachapuri – Georgian Cheese Bread Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a joyful celebration of simple ingredients transformed into extraordinary comfort food. Whether you’re new to Georgian cuisine or a longtime fan, making this at home will surely warm your heart and impress your friends and family. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and dive into the irresistibly cheesy, buttery world of Khachapuri!

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