Lithuanian Cheese and Herb Bread
Sūrinė Duona su Žolelėmis
A savory and aromatic bread, infused with cheese and fresh herbs, perfect as a side dish or a snack.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 7 g Active dry yeast
- 250 ml Warm milk
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1.5 tsp Salt
- 50 g Butter, melted
- 150 g Grated cheese (e.g., Gouda or Lithuanian "Džiugas")
- 3 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 large Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
💡 Tip: Ensure salt is evenly distributed - 3
Pour the yeast mixture and melted butter into the well. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
💡 Tip: Start mixing from the center outwards - 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
💡 Tip: Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky - 5
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 6
Punch down the dough. Gently knead in the grated cheese, chopped dill, parsley, and caraway seeds (if using).
💡 Tip: Be gentle to avoid overworking the dough - 7
Shape the dough into a round loaf or place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- 8
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg wash.
- 9
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
💡 Tip: Rotate the loaf halfway through baking for even browning - 10
Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- ✓Fresh herbs make a significant difference.
- ✓Adjust the amount of herbs and cheese to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of black pepper to the dough.
- Incorporate other herbs like chives or marjoram.
- Add a tablespoon of sour cream to the dough for extra richness.