How to Make Cheesy Jalapeño Cheddar Bread: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Who doesn’t love the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen? Pair that with the tangy heat of jalapeños and the gooey richness of melted cheddar cheese, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Cheesy jalapeño cheddar bread is more than just bread—it’s a flavorful treat that’s perfect for snacking, pairing with soups, or serving at gatherings.
You don’t have to be a master baker to make this recipe. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have an irresistible loaf of cheesy jalapeño cheddar bread on your table in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these basic ingredients:
For the bread dough:
- 3 cups (375 grams) of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1⅓ cups (320 ml) warm water (not too hot, around 110°F/43°C works best)
For the filling:
- 1½ cups (150 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2–3 fresh jalapeños, chopped (adjust based on your spice preference)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for that extra buttery flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. These are the building blocks of your delicious bread.
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Add the warm water: Gradually pour the warm water into the dry ingredients while mixing with a wooden spoon (or your hands!) until a rough dough forms. Make sure the water isn’t too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
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Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a clean, floured surface. Knead it for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle on a little more flour as you go.
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Let it rise: Place the dough ball into a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1–1.5 hours. It should double in size. A warm spot in your kitchen works best for this step—like near the stove or inside a turned-off oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheesy jalapeño filling:
1. Chop the jalapeños: Remove the seeds if you want less heat, but keep them if you’re a fan of spice. Dice the jalapeños into small pieces to mix evenly into the bread.
- Shred the cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor. If you want to play with flavors, you can mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread
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Flatten the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles. Using a rolling pin (or your hands), stretch the dough into a flat rectangle on a clean surface.
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Add the filling: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños evenly over the dough. For extra rich flavor, spread softened butter over the dough before adding the cheese and jalapeños.
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Roll it up: Start at one end of the rectangle and roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edges to seal, so the filling stays safely inside.
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Shape the loaf: You can either leave it as a log or fold it into a round shape. Place it in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Let It Rise Again
Cover the shaped loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes. The second rise helps the bread become fluffy and soft when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the bread is on its second rise.
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Bake the loaf: Place the bread in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and your kitchen will smell heavenly.
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Check for doneness: Tap the bottom of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, the bread is done. You can also insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the bread cool on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes. This helps it firm up so it doesn’t fall apart when slicing. Serve it warm to fully enjoy the gooey cheese and spicy jalapeños. You can pair it with a bowl of chili, creamy soups, or just enjoy it on its own!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the spice: If jalapeños are too hot for you, substitute them with mild banana peppers or roasted bell peppers.
- Cheese options: While cheddar is classic, try experimenting with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and reheat later.
That’s it! Now you know how to make cheesy jalapeño cheddar bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for the family or trying to impress guests, this simple recipe will win hearts and stomachs. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the magic of homemade bread! Happy baking! 🧀🌶🍞
