Name: Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Georgian
Ingredients: 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 2¼ tsp instant yeast; ¾ cup warm milk; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 egg (plus 1 egg per bread for topping); 1 tbsp butter

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If you have ever craved a cheese-filled delight that feels like a warm hug from the Caucasus region, then this Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This traditional Georgian specialty features a soft, golden crust hugging a luxurious, gooey cheese center, all topped with a perfectly baked egg and a pat of buttery goodness. Every bite melts in your mouth and transports you straight to the heart of Georgian hospitality and flavor. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into something truly magical.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five clear glass bowls on a dark wooden surface. The largest bowl on the top right contains smooth, thick white cream. To the left of it, a medium bowl holds a fluffy, whipped white mixture with soft peaks. Below this, a smaller bowl contains crumbly white cheese. On the bottom left, another bowl has pale yellow shredded cheese with soft texture. The bottom right bowl holds a mix of chopped green herbs with hints of brown spices. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of soft bread, melty cheese, and rich flavor. From the tender dough to the cheesy filling accented by an egg and butter, every element is essential and easy to find.

2½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and softness.
1 tsp sugar: Just enough to feed the yeast and add a hint of sweetness to the crust.
1 tsp salt: Vital for balancing flavors and enhancing the cheese’s savoriness.
2¼ tsp instant yeast: The powerhouse that makes your dough rise light and fluffy.
¾ cup warm milk: Warms the yeast and adds richness to the dough for a tender crumb.
1 tbsp olive oil: Adds moistness and helps achieve a golden crust during baking.
1½ cups shredded mozzarella: The stretchy, mild cheese that melts beautifully inside.
½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a tangy depth and authentic Georgian flavor twist.
1 egg (plus 1 egg per bread for topping): Mixed into the filling for richness and used as a precious finishing touch.
1 tbsp butter: Melted over the hot, baked bread to add indulgent flavor and shine.

How to Make Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, salt, and yeast—in a large bowl. This is where the base of your Khachapuri begins, setting the stage for a soft, pillowy crust that will cradle the cheesy center flawlessly.

Step 2: Mix and Knead

Pour in the warm milk and olive oil, then knead the mixture until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Kneading activates the gluten, ensuring the bread is tender yet sturdy enough to hold that luscious filling.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your dough with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size. This rising time is key to achieving the airy, soft texture that makes Khachapuri so irresistible.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out into an oval. Then fold the edges inward to create that signature boat shape unique to this Georgian cheese bread.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, and one egg until combined. This mixture will become your sumptuous, melty center that is the star of this Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe.

Step 6: Fill and Bake

Spoon the cheese filling into the center of your dough “boats.” Bake them in your preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling with excitement.

Step 7: Add Egg Topping

Carefully crack an egg onto each bread and return them to the oven for another 2 to 3 minutes. The egg will set slightly but remain beautifully runny, ready to mix with the cheese when serving.

Step 8: Finish with Butter

As soon as your Khachapuri comes out of the oven, place a tablespoon of butter on top. The butter melts into every crevice, elevating the flavors and making the crust shine with an inviting glaze.

How to Serve Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe

This image shows two oval-shaped bread bowls with a golden brown crust topped with baked cheese and sprinkled with chopped green herbs. Each bread bowl has a bright yellow cooked egg placed in the center, where the egg yolk looks slightly soft and shiny. The crust appears crisp with small toasted spots around the edges. A ripe red tomato sits next to the bread bowls on a white marbled surface, adding a pop of color. The lighting highlights the smooth texture of the melted cheese and the freshness of the herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Although traditional Khachapuri is simply served with butter melting into the cheese and egg, you can sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of cracked black pepper to brighten up the presentation and add a touch of freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair this glorious bread with refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or a tangy pickled vegetable plate to balance the richness of the cheese and egg.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual mini Khachapuris for parties or brunch. Alternatively, provide small bowls of extra butter and hot sauce so guests can customize their experience. Sharing this dish family-style also captures its communal spirit perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bread will stay soft, and the cheese will still taste delicious after reheating.

Freezing

Khachapuri freezes well—wrap each bread tightly with plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the crust crisps back to life. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread’s delightful texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses for the filling?

Absolutely! While this Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe calls for mozzarella and feta for authentic taste and melt, feel free to mix in other melting cheeses like fontina or young farmer’s cheese for your own twist.

Is it possible to make Khachapuri without yeast?

Khachapuri traditionally relies on yeast for that tender, airy dough. For the best results, it’s recommended to use yeast, but for a quick version you could experiment with baking powder as a leavening agent, keeping in mind the texture will be different.

How do I know when the egg in Khachapuri is perfectly cooked?

You want the egg white to set but the yolk to remain runny so it flows into the cheese when you cut into the bread. Baking for 2 to 3 minutes after adding the egg usually hits this balance perfectly.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking for best results.

What makes this Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe unique?

It’s the combination of the boat-shaped soft crust, the blend of melty cheese and tangy feta, plus the crowning egg and butter that create an irresistible harmony only found in authentic Georgian Khachapuri.

Final Thoughts

This Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth, comfort, and a taste of Georgian tradition to your table. Give yourself the gift of baking this incredible bread—your kitchen will smell divine, and your friends and family will thank you for sharing such a joyful, cheesy masterpiece!