Jalapeno Cheddar Bread Recipe

Introduction

This Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is a flavorful twist on classic homemade bread, combining the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños with the rich melt of cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for sandwiches, snacking, or serving alongside soups and salads.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2-3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, olive oil, and chopped jalapeños. Stir until the ingredients are combined.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Step 4: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Step 5: Punch down the dough to release air. Knead in the shredded cheddar cheese, then shape the dough into a loaf.
6. Step 6: Allow the shaped loaf to rise again for another hour, covered.
7. Step 7: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Tips & Variations

• For milder bread, remove seeds from jalapeños before chopping to reduce heat.
• Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier, creamier taste.
• Brush the loaf with olive oil before baking for a softer crust.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, freeze the sliced bread for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or oven for best results.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried jalapeño flakes instead of fresh jalapeños?

Yes, you can substitute dried jalapeño flakes to taste, but fresh jalapeños provide a better texture and fresher flavor in the bread.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).

Jalapeno Cheddar Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 140 reviews

This Jalapeno Cheddar Bread is a flavorful homemade loaf combining the spicy kick of fresh jalapenos with the rich, creamy taste of shredded cheddar cheese. Perfect as a savory snack or accompaniment to meals, this bread boasts a soft, tender crumb and a golden crust baked to perfection.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices) 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Flavorings

• 2–3 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the active dry yeast with warm water (110°F) and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center to prepare for the wet ingredients.
3. Combine ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the well of the flour mixture. Add the finely chopped jalapenos and mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape and second rise: Punch down the risen dough to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it onto a baking sheet or loaf pan. Cover and allow it to rise again for another hour.
7. Preheat the oven: While the dough completes its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Adjust the number of jalapenos based on your desired spice level; removing seeds will reduce heat.
• Ensure water temperature is around 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• Use a thermometer to check internal bread temperature; it should reach about 190-200°F when fully baked.
• This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
• For a sharper flavor, substitute half the cheddar cheese with a sharp white cheddar or pepper jack cheese.

Keywords: jalapeno cheddar bread, spicy bread, homemade bread, cheddar cheese bread, savory loaf