Step 1

Bread machine settings – 1.5 lb or 2 lb loaf, light color and “basic” bread setting.

Step 2

Unplug the bread machine & remove the bread pan.

Step 3

Soften the butter in a microwave. FYI - I like to semi-melt the butter for better "mixability".

Step 4

Pour the milk & butter into the bread pan and then add the other ingredients (including the cup of cheese). Place the bread machine yeast in last and the yeast should not touch the liquid (until the bread machine is turned on and the ingredients start to be mixed together).

Step 5

Optional - For greater flavor, you can also add diced jalapenos, minced & fried garlic cloves, thinly sliced chives/scallions (green stalks only) or Italian seasoning. For best results, just pick one additional "flavor" ingredient (i.e. just jalapenos). Place optional ingredient on the side of the bread pan and not on top of the yeast.

Step 6

Place the bread pan (with ingredients) back into the unplugged bread machine.

Step 7

Plug in the bread machine. Enter the correct settings (basic, light color & 1.5 or 2 lb) and press the “start” button.

Step 8

Optional - After the FINAL kneading cycle and BEFORE the baking cycle commences, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top of the dough. For safety reasons, do not place your hands inside the bread machine.

Step 9

When the bread machine has finished baking the bread, unplug the bread machine and remove the bread pan. Wear oven mitts as the bread pan will be very hot.

Step 10

Remove the bread from the bread pan and place it on a cooling rack. Use oven mitts when handling the bread pan and bread as they will be very hot.

Step 11

Please read the Bread Dad tips section for extra information on how to make this recipe successfully and how to avoid common bread machine problems.