Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) 257387

Ingredients

Directions

1. In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, the yeast, sugar, and salt until well combined.

2. In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and margarine over low heat for about 5 minutes until the milk is warm to the touch and the margarine is mostly melted.

3. With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the flour, beating until the ingredients are just incorporated.

4. Increase the speed to medium and continue beating for about 2 minutes until the batter looks smooth and consistent.

5. Add the remaining 2 cups of flour and continue beating until a lovely, soft dough begins to pull away from the sides.

6. Switch to the dough hook and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it feels wonderfully smooth, supple, and elastic.

7. Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it over so it’s fully coated, then cover it and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size.

8. Gently punch the dough down to release the air, then let it rise a second time for about 45 minutes to help develop a light, airy texture.

9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch round baking pan to get it ready for the dough.

10. Softly deflate the dough one last time, roll it into a neat circle, and carefully transfer it into your prepared baking pan.

11. In a separate bowl, stir the Muenster cheese, egg, and egg yolk together until well mixed, then spread this savory filling evenly over the dough.

12. To create the classic shape, gather the edges of the dough into small pleats, pinching them together at the center and giving them a gentle twist to form a decorative topknot.

13. Let the dough rest for a final 10 to 15 minutes, then brush the surface with egg white to ensure a beautiful, glossy finish.

14. Bake for about 1 hour until the crust is perfectly golden brown and the cheese is bubbly—you've just made a delicious, authentic Khachapuri!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)