Cheddar Jalapeño Bread is a delicious, savory bread that’s perfect for adding a bit of spice and cheese to your meals. Here’s a recipe to make this flavorful bread at home:
Cheddar Jalapeño Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup milk (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms.
- Add Cheese and Jalapeños:
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños to the dough. Mix well to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the dough with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread:
- Brush the top of the dough with milk for a shiny crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes (for a loaf) or 20-25 minutes (for rolls), or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your spice preference. For a milder bread, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a variation in flavor.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding a handful of chopped green onions or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Cheddar Jalapeño Bread warm with a spread of butter or as a delicious accompaniment to soups and stews!
4o