We’ve always been fans of the irresistible Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread a classic diner staple that’s captured hearts since its New Jersey roots. Originating from a beloved family-owned spot it’s packed with gooey cheese and a golden crust that makes every bite memorable.
In our kitchen we’ve perfected this recipe to bring that authentic flavor home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a quick snack this cheesy delight will elevate your meal game effortlessly.
Ingredients
To bring our authentic Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread to life, we start by assembling these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with specific measurements and prep notes for precision.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, sifted to ensure a light and airy dough base
- Active dry yeast: 1 packet (about 2¼ teaspoons), proofed in warm water for optimal rise
- Warm water: 1 cup, heated to 110°F for activating the yeast
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for adding moisture and a subtle flavor to the dough
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the overall taste
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, for a fragrant kick that complements the cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups, freshly grated for maximum meltiness and gooey texture
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted to brush on top for that signature golden crust
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon, sprinkled for an herby finish that evokes the diner’s classic appeal
These ingredients form the foundation of our Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread Recipe, ensuring every bite delivers the warm, cheesy goodness we’re known for recreating at home.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread to life, we need a few essential tools that make preparation straightforward and ensure that golden, gooey crust turns out perfectly every time. Let’s outline the key equipment in the order we’ll use them, helping us transition smoothly from mixing ingredients to baking.
- Large mixing bowl: We start by using this to combine our dry ingredients like flour and yeast, ensuring even distribution for a consistent dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is crucial, so we rely on these for precise measurements of items like warm water and olive oil, avoiding any imbalances that could affect the bread’s texture.
- Whisk or wooden spoon: For stirring the dough initially, we prefer this tool to blend the wet and dry components thoroughly, creating that signature chewy base.
- Baking sheet or loaf pan: As we move to baking, this holds our shaped dough, allowing it to develop its irresistible golden crust in the oven.
- Oven thermometer: We use this to verify our oven reaches the exact temperature needed—typically around 375°F—for that perfect cheesy melt without over-browning.
- Grater: Essential for shredding the cheddar cheese finely, we incorporate it just before baking to maximize that gooey, flavorful layer.
- Pastry brush: Finally, we apply melted butter with this for a glossy finish, enhancing the bread’s aroma and taste as it bakes to perfection.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our essential ingredients and equipment, we guide you through creating the iconic Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread with simple steps that deliver its signature gooey cheese and golden crust.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we begin, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for seamless mixing and baking. Start by measuring out 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted), and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Grate the cheddar cheese if it’s not pre-shredded, and warm the water to activate the yeast effectively, setting the stage for that irresistible cheesy aroma.
Mix the Dough
We mix the dough by first combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder then stir with a whisk or wooden spoon until evenly blended. Next, pour in the 1 cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until it forms a smooth, elastic dough that clings to the bowl. This step builds the foundation for our Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread, ensuring a light and airy texture that contrasts perfectly with the melted cheese.
Let the Dough Rise
Once the dough is mixed, we let it rise to develop its flavor and structure. Place the dough in a lightly oiled large mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and set it in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. Watch as it expands, creating a soft, pillowy base that promises the hearty warmth of authentic diner-style bread.
Add the Cheese
After rising, we add the cheese to infuse the bread with its gooey goodness. Punch down the dough gently to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and roll the dough into a log before placing it in a greased baking sheet or loaf pan. This step ensures the cheese melts into every bite, delivering the rich, savory burst that defines Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread.
Bake the Bread
Finally, we bake the bread to achieve its golden perfection. Preheat your oven to 375°F and brush the top of the dough with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter for a glossy finish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the crust turns a deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of warm, cheesy bread. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing to preserve that crisp exterior and molten center.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread fresh and flavorful, we often prepare it in advance or store leftovers for later enjoyment. This ensures you can savor its gooey cheese and golden crust whenever the craving hits.
Make-Ahead Options
We love making this cheese bread ahead of time to simplify meal prep for busy days or gatherings. Here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Prepare the Dough in Advance: After mixing the dough as outlined in our steps, let it rise for the full 1 to 1.5 hours. Once risen, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to develop even more, giving you that authentic diner taste.
- Assemble and Chill: For added convenience, shape the dough into a loaf or rolls after the rise, incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese and brush with melted butter, then cover and refrigerate the unbaked bread for up to 12 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to avoid a dense texture.
- Freeze the Dough: If you need longer storage, shape the dough, add the cheese mixture, and freeze it on a baking sheet for 2 hours until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for optimal results.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps maintain the bread’s warm, cheesy goodness and prevents it from becoming stale. We always recommend these methods based on how soon you plan to enjoy it.
For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of storage times and tips in a table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container at 68-72°F (20-22°C) to preserve the golden crust’s crunch. Ideal for immediate consumption within a day. |
| Refrigeration | Up to 5 days | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in the fridge. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore that gooey, melted cheese texture. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months |
Cool the baked bread completely, then wrap in multiple layers of plastic wrap and foil. Thaw at room temperature for 2 hours and reheat at 350°F for 15 minutes to bring back its signature warmth and aroma.
By following these guidelines, we ensure our Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread remains a crowd-pleaser, ready to enhance any meal with its irresistible cheesy appeal.
Conclusion
We’ve enjoyed guiding you through this Mastoris Diner cheese bread recipe
It’s a simple way to bring warm cheesy goodness to your table
We’re sure it’ll become a go-to favorite for family gatherings or snacks
Try it today and savor the homemade magic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread?
Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread is a classic New Jersey diner favorite, featuring a gooey cheese filling and golden crust. It’s a family-owned recipe perfect for home cooks, ideal for snacks or gatherings, with a warm, cheesy flavor that elevates any meal.
What ingredients are needed for Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread?
The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, warm water, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, shredded cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, and dried oregano. These are measured precisely and used in order to create the authentic, cheesy taste and texture.
What equipment is required to make Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or wooden spoon, a baking sheet or loaf pan, an oven thermometer, a cheese grater, and a pastry brush. This basic setup ensures smooth preparation and a perfect golden crust.
How do I make Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread step by step?
Start by prepping and mixing the dough with yeast, flour, and water, then let it rise for 1-1.5 hours. Add cheese, shape the dough, brush with melted butter, and bake at the right temperature until golden. Follow the article’s instructions for best results.
Can I prepare Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread in advance?
Yes, make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor. You can also shape it into loaves or rolls and chill unbaked for up to 12 hours, or freeze the dough for up to a month for easy future baking.
How should I store Mastoris Diner Cheese Bread?
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain its gooey texture. Always use airtight containers to keep it fresh and flavorful.