This jalapeño cheese bread is a flavorful twist on traditional Dutch oven bread. The combination of spicy jalapeños and melted cheese creates a deliciously crusty loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and stews.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The Dutch oven method ensures a perfectly baked crust and soft interior.
Overview of Jalapeño Cheese Bread
This jalapeño cheese bread offers a delightful twist on classic bread recipes. The combination of spicy jalapeños and melted cheese creates a loaf that is both crusty and soft, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Whether served alongside soups and stews or enjoyed as a standalone snack, this bread is sure to impress. The simplicity of the recipe makes it approachable for bakers of all skill levels, allowing anyone to create a delicious homemade loaf.
Texture and Flavor Profile
The texture of jalapeño cheese bread is a standout feature. With a chewy crumb and a crispy outer crust, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a soft, airy interior. The jalapeños provide a gentle heat that complements the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Each slice reveals pieces of green jalapeño and melted cheese, inviting you to savor the unique taste. This bread is not just about flavor; it’s an experience that tantalizes the senses.
Preparation and Baking Process
Preparing this bread is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. The process begins with mixing dry ingredients, followed by the addition of warm water to form a shaggy dough. Incorporating the cheese and jalapeños ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
After allowing the dough to rise for an extended period, it is shaped and placed in a preheated Dutch oven. This method is key to achieving that perfect crust while keeping the inside soft and airy. The baking process is simple yet effective, resulting in a beautifully golden loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Jalapeño cheese bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a drizzle of olive oil for dipping, or use it as a base for sandwiches. Its robust flavor pairs well with a variety of toppings, from simple butter to gourmet spreads.
For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with soups or stews. The bread’s texture and flavor enhance the overall dining experience, making it a perfect companion for comfort foods.
Storage and Freshness
To maintain the freshness of your jalapeño cheese bread, store it in a paper bag at room temperature. This helps preserve the crust’s crispness while keeping the interior soft. For longer storage, consider freezing slices and toasting them when ready to enjoy.
Reheating the bread in an oven or toaster will revive its delightful texture, making it taste freshly baked even days later.
Nutrition Information
This bread not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers a reasonable nutritional profile. Each slice contains approximately 200 calories, with a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The inclusion of cheese and jalapeños adds extra flavor and a touch of spice, making it a fulfilling option for any meal.
With its delicious taste and satisfying texture, jalapeño cheese bread is a wonderful addition to any recipe collection, inviting bakers to create and share this delightful loaf.
Easy Jalapeño Cheese Bread Recipe
This bread features a chewy texture with a crispy crust, infused with the heat of jalapeños and the richness of cheese. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a total baking time of approximately 45 minutes, yielding one large loaf.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir to combine.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Fold in the shredded cheese and diced jalapeños until evenly distributed.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size and is bubbly.
- Preheat Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, place a Dutch oven (with the lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C).
- Shape the Dough: Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. With floured hands, shape it into a round loaf. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Bake the Bread: Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Place the dough inside (you can line it with parchment paper for easier removal), cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 12-18 hours (including rising time)
- Servings: 1 large loaf
- Calories: 200kcal per slice
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g