Colombian Bono Bread, a beloved staple in Colombian bakeries, is known for its soft, cheesy texture and slightly sweet flavor. This delightful bread starts with a blend of warm milk and sugar, creating a welcoming environment for the instant dry yeast to bloom. The yeast mixture, after turning foamy, is combined with a mix of melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, enriching the dough with a subtle, buttery aroma.
The incorporation of all-purpose flour and salt serves as the foundation for the dough, which begins to take shape with each stir. The true magic happens when grated mozzarella cheese is folded into the dough, introducing a moist, cheesy element that defines Bono Bread. A thorough kneading on a floured surface gives the dough its essential elasticity and smooth texture.
After a resting period that allows the dough to double in size, it’s divided into smaller portions and patiently left to rise once more, ensuring each piece achieves an airy lightness. Baked to golden perfection at 180°C (350°F), the final product is a feast for the senses. The oven fills with an appetizing aroma, and the golden-brown tops hint at the delicate balance of flavors inside.
Characterized by its soft, chewy texture and rich, cheesy flavor, Colombian Bono Bread is often enjoyed fresh out of the oven, capturing the essence of Colombian culinary tradition. It’s not just a bread but a comforting, deeply rooted piece of Colombian heritage, perfect for breakfast or an anytime snack. Whether served plain or with a touch of butter, Bono Bread remains a cherished delight that brings warmth and joy to any table.
Ingredients
500g all-purpose flour
10g instant dry yeast
150g granulated sugar
250ml warm milk
100g unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
200g grated mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Sprinkle the instant dry yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes until it’s foamy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
6. Add the grated mozzarella cheese to the dough and mix well until the cheese is evenly distributed.
7. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
8. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
9. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles and knead it briefly.
11. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into small balls or your preferred bread shape.
12. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
13. Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
14. Brush the tops with a bit of milk or an egg wash if desired, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
15. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.