This sourdough jalapeño cheddar sandwich bread combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the richness of cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for sandwiches or toasted with butter.
The recipe requires a sourdough starter and basic bread-making techniques, making it a rewarding project for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Homemade Sourdough Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
This delightful bread brings together the tangy notes of sourdough with the spicy warmth of jalapeños and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese.
The combination creates a unique flavor profile that elevates any meal, whether enjoyed as a sandwich or simply toasted with a bit of butter.
With a soft and chewy texture complemented by a crispy crust, this bread is sure to impress. The visible chunks of jalapeños and melted cheese not only enhance the taste but also make for an appealing presentation.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key ingredients for this recipe include an active sourdough starter, warm water, and all-purpose flour, which form the base of the dough.
Adding salt and sugar helps to balance the flavors, while shredded sharp cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños infuse the bread with their distinctive tastes.
A touch of olive oil is used for greasing, ensuring that the dough rises beautifully without sticking. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect loaf.
The Bread-Making Process
Creating this sourdough jalapeño cheddar bread involves several steps, starting with mixing the dough.
Combining the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar sets the foundation, followed by incorporating the flour and salt to form a shaggy dough.
Kneading the dough is essential for developing its structure. This process takes about 10 minutes, during which the cheese and jalapeños are folded in, ensuring even distribution throughout the loaf.
Rising to Perfection
The first rise is crucial for allowing the dough to develop flavor and texture.
After placing it in a greased bowl and covering it with a damp cloth, the dough should rise in a warm environment for 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Once risen, the dough is punched down to release any trapped air, shaped into a loaf, and placed in a greased loaf pan for the second rise. This step typically takes about an hour, allowing the loaf to rise above the rim of the pan.
Baking and Enjoying
Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) signals that it’s almost time to bake.
The loaf is baked for 30-35 minutes, achieving a golden-brown crust that sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. This auditory cue is a great indicator of doneness.
After baking, letting the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack ensures that it maintains its shape and texture. The anticipation builds as the aroma fills the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
This sourdough jalapeño cheddar bread is incredibly versatile.
It can be sliced for sandwiches, served alongside soups, or toasted for breakfast. The melted cheese and jalapeños create a delightful experience with every bite.
For an extra kick, pair it with pickled jalapeños on the side. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch to your presentation.
Homemade Sourdough Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
This bread features a soft, chewy texture with a crispy crust, infused with jalapeños and melted cheddar cheese throughout. The recipe takes about 4 hours from start to finish, including rising time, and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Incorporate the cheddar cheese and jalapeños during the last few minutes of kneading.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 1 hour, or until it has risen above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g