A Soft, Buttery Favorite from the Philippines with a Sweet-Cheesy Crust
If you’ve ever strolled past a Filipino bakery, you know the aroma of freshly baked Filipino Cheese Bread is absolutely irresistible. These pillowy-soft buns are coated with a buttery, cheesy-sugary crust that bakes into a golden, caramelized hug around each piece. It’s pure comfort, and today—you’re baking it right at home.
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Filipino Cheese Bread Recipe Overview
Unlike the savory cheese breads you might expect, Filipino Cheese Bread is gently sweet, slightly salty, and has the most magical crunchy topping that gives way to a soft, rich interior. It’s typically enjoyed as a merienda (afternoon snack), with a cup of hot coffee or cocoa.
- Flavor: Buttery, sweet, and lightly cheesy
- Texture: Soft, fluffy bread with a caramelized, cheesy-sugary crust
- Time: Needs about 2 hours including rising time
- Perfect For: Merienda, breakfast, or a nostalgic bite of Filipino comfort
Ingredients List
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (for topping before baking)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or stand mixer with dough hook
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Clean towel or plastic wrap for proofing
- Pastry brush (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. - Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Add eggs, warm milk, and yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic—about 8 minutes by hand or 5 with a dough hook. - First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour. - Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 pieces. Roll into balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Let rise again for 30 minutes. - Prepare the Topping
In a bowl, mix softened butter, sugar, flour, and grated cheese until crumbly. - Top the Bread
Press the cheese topping gently onto the top and sides of each dough ball. Sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese if desired. - Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfecting the Filipino Cheese Bread Recipe
- Use good-quality cheddar—Filipino brands like Eden are traditional, but any sharp cheddar works.
- Don’t overheat the milk or water—it should be warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Want extra crunch? Add a little more sugar to the topping mix.
- These are best enjoyed fresh, but they reheat beautifully!
What to Serve With It
- A mug of hot tsokolate (Filipino-style hot chocolate)
- Barako coffee or your favorite brewed blend
- Fresh mango slices for a sweet contrast
Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crisp topping.
- Freeze baked rolls individually wrapped—thaw and rewarm to enjoy.
General Information Filipino Cheese Bread
- Occasions: Afternoon snacks (merienda), weekend breakfasts, potlucks
- Cultural Note: A Filipino bakery staple—one bite and you’re transported home
- Texture: Soft interior, crunchy cheesy-sweet crust
FAQ
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes—skip the proofing step and add it directly to the dry ingredients.
Can I use other cheese types?
Sure! Try mozzarella for stretch, or parmesan for a salty twist.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Swap butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese, though flavor may vary.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
Your yeast may have been expired or the liquid too hot. Always check freshness and temperature.
Conclusion
Filipino Cheese Bread brings all the magic of a Filipino bakery right into your kitchen. Soft, rich, and crowned with sweet cheesy crumbs, these buns are everything a good merienda should be. Go ahead—bake up a batch and let the aroma fill your home.
Tried them? Tag @poulefrecipe on Pinterest and show off your soft, cheesy creations!
More Filipino Favorites to Try:
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Filipino Cheese Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Filipino Cheese Bread is soft, buttery bread topped with a sweet, cheesy crumb—perfect for merienda or breakfast with coffee or hot chocolate.
Ingredients
Dough
-
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
-
1/4 cup warm water
-
1/2 cup sugar
-
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
2 large eggs
-
1 cup warm milk
-
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (for topping)
Topping
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1/4 cup sugar
-
1/2 cup flour
-
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Mix yeast and warm water. Let sit 10 min.
-
Combine flour, sugar, salt. Mix in butter, eggs, milk, and yeast.
-
Knead until smooth. Cover and rise 1 hour.
-
Divide into 12 balls. Rise again 30 min.
-
Mix topping ingredients. Press onto dough balls.
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Bake at 350°F for 18–20 min until golden. Cool and serve.
Instructions
-
Mix yeast and warm water. Let sit 10 min.
-
Combine flour, sugar, salt. Mix in butter, eggs, milk, and yeast.
-
Knead until smooth. Cover and rise 1 hour.
-
Divide into 12 balls. Rise again 30 min.
-
Mix topping ingredients. Press onto dough balls.
-
Bake at 350°F for 18–20 min until golden. Cool and serve.
Notes
Best with Filipino-style cheddar like Eden. Add more sugar for a sweeter crust. Toast leftovers to revive topping.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 90
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Filipino
