Homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread

This Homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread is the perfect balance of heat, cheese, and fresh bread all in one. With a golden, crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior, it’s a show-stopping bread that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of jalapeños and cheddar gives it a spicy kick and savory depth.

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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Bread:

Soft & Fluffy – With a perfect chewy texture on the inside.

Flavorful – The combination of spicy jalapeños and melted cheddar makes each bite deliciously bold.

No Knead – This easy Dutch oven method requires minimal effort!

Great for Sharing – Perfect for family meals, gatherings, or as a tasty snack.

Crispy Golden Crust – The Dutch oven creates a crust that’s perfectly crispy and golden.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 medium jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional, for dusting)

Tools You’ll Need:

• Dutch oven (or similar heavy pot with lid)
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap

How to Make Homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
2. Add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. You should have a sticky dough.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños to the dough. Mix until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the bread denser.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

4. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 1 to 1.5 hours in a warm area, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Preheat the Dutch Oven

5. While the dough rises, place your Dutch oven with the lid on inside the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C). Preheating the pot helps create that perfect crust.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

6. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air.
7. Shape the dough into a round loaf by folding the edges towards the center, then flip it over to form a tight ball. The smoother the top, the better the crust will be.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

8. Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven (it will be very hot). Sprinkle cornmeal (optional) in the bottom of the Dutch oven to prevent sticking.
9. Place the shaped dough into the Dutch oven. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the dough with an “X” to help it rise evenly as it bakes.
10. Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
11. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches around 200°F (93°C).

Step 6: Cool and Serve

12. Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
13. Serve warm with butter, or enjoy as is!

What to Serve with Jalapeño Cheddar Bread:

• Chili – The perfect side dish for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – A spicy twist on the classic grilled cheese.
• Salsa or Guacamole – Pair with your favorite dip for a zesty snack.
• Soup – Perfect with creamy soups like potato or tomato.

Tips for the Best Jalapeño Cheddar Bread:

• Use Fresh Yeast – Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date and using warm (not hot) water.
• Adjust the Heat – Add more jalapeños for extra heat, or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
• Allow it to Cool – Let the bread cool before slicing to avoid a gummy texture inside.
• Add More Cheese – Feel free to mix in additional cheese for an even cheesier loaf.

Storing and Reheating:

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Slice the bread and freeze individual pieces in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.
• Reheat – Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: Can I make this bread without jalapeños? A: Yes! If you prefer a milder bread, simply skip the jalapeños and use just cheddar cheese for a delicious plain loaf.

Q2: Can I use a different cheese? A: Absolutely! Try using pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a milder option.

Q3: Can I bake this without a Dutch oven? A: If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can bake the bread on a baking sheet. Just be sure to preheat the oven and bake on the middle rack for a golden crust.

Conclusion:

This Homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread is the ultimate bread recipe for cheese and spice lovers! With a crispy crust, cheesy interior, and a slight kick from the jalapeños, it’s sure to be a favorite at your table. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this bread will never disappoint.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Rising Time: 1.5 hours
Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 27g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 450mg

Enjoy every bite of this irresistible homemade bread!

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