Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread)

If you’ve never tried Khachapuri, get ready for a cheesy, pillowy, and utterly comforting experience. This traditional Georgian dish features a soft, boat-shaped bread filled with a gooey blend of cheeses, crowned with a golden egg yolk and a pat of butter. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for tearing apart with your hands while the molten cheese stretches with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dinner, or a cozy snack, this iconic bread will steal the show.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Melty Cheese Center – A luscious mix of cheeses melts perfectly in the center.
Comfort Food at Its Best – Bread, cheese, butter, and egg—need we say more?
Fun to Eat – Tear off the crust and dip into the cheesy center.
Impressive Yet Easy – A beautiful bread that’s easier to make than it looks.
Customizable – Choose your favorite cheeses or add toppings for a creative twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup ricotta or farmer’s cheese
• Optional: ¼ cup shredded Monterey Jack or provolone for added meltiness

For the Topping:

• 2 egg yolks (1 per khachapuri)
• 2 small pats of unsalted butter

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or fork
Rolling pin
Parchment paper
Baking sheet
Pastry brush (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it bloom for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix and knead the dough for about 7–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine mozzarella, feta, and ricotta (plus optional cheeses if using).
Stir until evenly mixed and set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Khachapuri Boats
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts.
Roll each piece into an oval about 10 inches long and 6 inches wide.
Place the ovals on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Roll the long sides inward toward the center to form a boat shape, then pinch the ends together to seal.
Fill each boat with the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly inside the well.

Step 4: Bake the Bread
Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Remove from oven. Make a small well in the center of the cheese using a spoon.
Gently add an egg yolk to each well and place a pat of butter beside it.
Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, just until the yolk starts to set but remains runny.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while still hot.
To eat traditionally, stir the egg yolk and melted butter into the cheese and tear off pieces of the crust to dip into the filling.

Tips for Perfect Khachapuri
Use Room Temp Dough – It will rise and shape more easily.
Don’t Overbake – You want the crust golden but the cheese still creamy.
Keep the Egg Yolk Runny – Bake only a few minutes after adding the yolk.
Add a Twist – Try chopped herbs, sautéed spinach, or a pinch of chili flakes for variation.
Serve Fresh – It’s best enjoyed hot out of the oven for the full gooey effect.

Serving Suggestions
Brunch Centerpiece – Serve with coffee, tea, or fresh juice.
Appetizer – Cut into pieces and share as a cheesy starter.
Pair with Salad – A crisp cucumber or tomato salad balances the richness.
Snack or Light Dinner – It’s filling enough on its own with a side of fruit or yogurt.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store cooled khachapuri in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until warm.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 325°F for 5–6 minutes.
• Avoid microwave if possible to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-made dough?
Yes! Pizza dough or refrigerated bread dough can be used for a shortcut.

2. Is there a vegetarian version?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just use your preferred cheese mix.

3. What other cheeses work well?
Any melty cheese like provolone, gouda, or fontina can be added for richness.

4. Can I make mini versions?
Absolutely—divide dough into smaller ovals for personal-size khachapuri.

5. Is the egg yolk necessary?
It’s traditional, but if you prefer, you can skip it and serve with just cheese and butter.

Final Thoughts
Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) is the ultimate in comfort food. With its buttery crust, molten cheese center, and rich egg yolk topping, it’s a dish that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast or a weekend treat, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite.

Give it a try and share the love—because bread and cheese never go out of style.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 15–17 minutes
Cuisine: Georgian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 490 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 37g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 570mg

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