Cheese Ciabatta
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Medium
A rustic Italian-style flatbread loaded with melted mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and fresh herbs, perfect for serving alongside soups or enjoying as a standalone snack.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 400 gstrong bread flour
- 280 mlwarm water
- 7 ginstant yeast
- 8 gsalt
- 30 mlolive oil
- 200 gmozzarella cheese(shredded)
- 100 gaged cheddar cheese(shredded)
- 10 gfresh rosemary(chopped)
- 3garlic cloves(minced)
- 5 gsea salt flakes(for topping)
- 2 gblack pepper
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Combine warm water with instant yeast and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Mix bread flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Tip: If the dough is too dry, add water a tablespoon at a time. It should be sticky but manageable.
- 2
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 45 minutes until doubled in size.
Tip: You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6 minutes on medium speed.
- 3
Preheat your oven to 220°C. Mix the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary in a bowl.
Tip: Reserve a small handful of the cheese mixture for sprinkling on top after assembly.
- 4
Turn the risen dough onto a lined baking tray and gently stretch it into a rough rectangle about 2-3 cm thick. Dimple the surface with your fingertips to create the characteristic ciabatta texture.
Tip: Don't overwork the dough—those air pockets are what make ciabatta special.
- 5
Scatter the cheese mixture evenly over the dimpled dough, gently pressing it into the surface. Sprinkle with reserved cheese, sea salt flakes, and black pepper.
Tip: Leave a small border around the edges to prevent cheese from burning.
- 6
Cover with a cloth and let the dough rise for another 20-25 minutes until puffy. Brush lightly with olive oil if desired for extra richness.
Tip: The second rise doesn't need to double—just until the dough feels slightly springy.
- 7
Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling at the edges.
Tip: If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil and continue baking until the crust is crispy.
- 8
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for maximum cheese melt.
Tip: This is best enjoyed freshly baked, but can be reheated gently in the oven.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Chinese Black Bean Salad
This Chinese black bean salad is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes absolutely delicious. Black beans are packed with fiber and protein, making them incredibly filling and nutritious, so you get a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The beauty of this recipe is how simple it really is, just fresh vegetables tossed with a punchy ginger garlic dressing that brings everything to life. I love serving it cold or at room temperature, which means you can prep it ahead and grab it whenever you need a quick, wholesome lunch or side dish.
Chinese Quinoa Salad
This Chinese Quinoa Salad has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in under an hour and tastes absolutely restaurant quality. The best part? Quinoa is packed with complete protein, so you're getting all nine essential amino acids in every bite, making this a genuinely satisfying meal that keeps you full. I love how simple it is to assemble once the quinoa cooks, and you can prep all the vegetables while it simmers away. The sesame oil and ginger dressing gives it such an authentic flavor that your friends will be amazed you made it at home, but honestly, it's easier than ordering takeout.
Chinese Lentil Salad
This is one of my favorite go to meals because it comes together in under an hour and tastes even better the next day. The Chinese lentils are packed with protein and fiber, so you actually feel satisfied and energized afterward. What I love most is how simple it is to throw together, plus all the fresh vegetables are naturally budget friendly. The tangy dressing with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and lime juice brings everything to life, making it feel restaurant quality without any fuss or complicated techniques.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.