Crusty Cheese Ring

Thanks to Minette Greenman, who will always be loved as a beloved grandmother!

(Bake at 375F for 25 to 35 minutes; Makes 9-inch bread ring)

The zesty flavor of Italian cooking is yours in this golden, crusty, ring-shaped bread made with Gruyere cheese. A perfect specialty for snacks and company meals. It’s rich in butter and eggs and so easy to make…there’s no kneading! The Italian name for this bread refers to St. Clare; according to Neopolitan tradition, the simple ingredients bring to mind her humble virtues.

Soften… 1 cake compressed yeast* in ½ cup scalded milk, cooled to lukewarm. Let stand 5 minutes.
Sift… 3 cups sifted Pillsbury’s Best Enriched Flour
Combine… 2/3 cup riced or mashed potatoes 1/3 cup melted butter or margarine 3 ounces (about 1 cup) shredded Gruyere or other firm cheese and 2 unbeaten eggs in large bowl. Beat until well combined.
Blend in… the yeast-milk mixture and the dry ingredients; mix thoroughly.
Knead… on well-floured board until smooth and satiny, 5 to 8 minutes. Place in greased bowl and cover.
Let rise… in warm place (85F to 90F) until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
Punch down… dough by plunging fist in center. Knead gently on floured board about 2 minutes. Shape into a long roll and fit into well-greased 9-inch ring mold. Pinch ends together to seal.
Let rise… In warm place until light about 30 minutes.
Bake… In moderate oven (375F) 25 to 35 minutes. Serve warm.

*If desired, 1 package active dry yeast may be used. Dissolve in ¼ cup water as directed on package; decrease amount of scalded milk to ¼ cup.