Pan Amasado (Ecuadorian Cheese Bread)

Ingredients

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 4g
• Protein: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, and garlic powder.
3. 3.
   Add the melted butter to the dry ingredients and mix until crumbly.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour in the warm milk while stirring, until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each portion with your hands.
7. 7.
   Place a small amount of mozzarella and cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened dough portion.
8. 8.
   Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, sealing it well.
9. 9.
   Shape the dough into rounds or rolls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
10. 10.
    Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
12. 12.
    Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheese — Use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the dough.
• Serve Pan Amasado warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, you can substitute garlic powder with minced garlic.

Serving advice

Pan Amasado is best served warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a cup of hot chocolate or a refreshing glass of fruit juice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the freshly baked Pan Amasado on a rustic wooden platter or a colorful plate to showcase their golden-brown exterior. Sprinkle some additional chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.