Easy Cheese Batter Bread (A Pillsbury Bake-Off Winner)

DuChick's Note:

This hearty casserole bread was a prize winner in the 23rd Bake-Off contest in the early 70's. The moist and chewy bread is even better the second day! *Cooking time(passive time) includes time for bread to rise twice.

• Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 2 hrs

Ingredients:

Yield: 1 loaf

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup margarine or 1/2 cup butter
• 3 eggs

Directions:

1. Generously grease 1 1/2 or 2 quart casserole dish or 9x5" loaf pan.
2. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off.
3. In large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, cheese, sugar,salt and yeast; blend well.
4. In small saucepan, heat milk and margarine until very warm (120 to 130 degrees F.).
5. Add warm liquid and eggs to flour mixture.
6. Blend at low speed until moistened; beat 3 minutes at medium speed.
7. By hand, stir in remaining 1 cup flour.
8. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and cloth towel.
9. Let rise in warm place (80 to 85 degrees F.) until light and doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
10. Stir down dough to remove all air bubbles. Turn into prepared casserole dish.
11. Cover; let rise in warm place until ight and doubled in size, 20-25 minutes.
12. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
13. Uncover dough.
14. Bake 40-45 minutes or until deep golden brown.
15. Remove from casserole dish immediately; cool on wire rack.