Slicing into a freshly baked loaf is one of life's simplest pleasures, especially when it's Dutch oven jalapeno cheddar bread. The combination of fiery peppers and sharp cheddar encased in a crusty loaf is downright irresistible to bread lovers.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
And here's a cozy thought: Imagine slicing into a warm loaf of this homemade bread. The crust cracks just right, steam rises, and the spicy aroma of jalapenos mingles with the hearty scent of baked cheese.
It's not just any homemade bread—it's a Dutch oven artisan bread recipe that creates a hearty loaf infused with the kick of jalapenos and the comforting embrace of melted cheese. Best of all, you can make it right in your homestead kitchen.
Why you'll love this recipe
I love the flavor and texture of this great bread. It doesn't make a dense loaf of bread, but the slices hold their shape well, so they're perfect for cheese sandwiches when you're tired of your regular homemade sandwich bread.
There's something deeply satisfying about bread-making, especially when it involves a Dutch oven bread recipe and the zesty addition of jalapenos.
My husband loves jalapenos, and I'm always looking for unique ways to incorporate these zippy peppers into our everyday and holiday dishes.
This Dutch oven jalapeno bread is a savory bread recipe that's a must-have in your collection of easy bread recipes for fall. And if you're looking for a way to include jalapenos in your holiday dishes, try this Cheese Ball with Jalapenos.
The crust gives way to a soft, cheesy interior and the bold flavor of jalapenos. It's a dish that asks for a bit of your time, yes, but gives back ample flavor and texture. And it's a fun alternative to the traditional dinner rolls you serve with your regular meals.
⬇️Want the printable recipe card? It's at the bottom of this post.⬇️
Jalapeno Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread Ingredients
Like most artisanal breads, you'll need some basic ingredients that work together to create a robust flavor profile.
- Active dry yeast
- Hot water
- All-purpose flour
- Kosher salt
- Fresh Jalapeños
- Cheddar Cheese
How to make this jalapeño cheddar bread
Making jalapeno bread in a Dutch oven is almost as comforting as the bread itself.
1. Begin by prepping your jalapeno slices and cheese. The attention to detail here pays off in flavor.
2. In a medium bowl, activate the yeast in hot water and watch it bubble.
3. Mix your dry ingredients in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and shredded cheese.
4. Knead until you have a sticky but firm dough.
5. Add the jalapeno pepper, then cover it with a clean tea towel and let the dough rise for an hour. (Choose a warm place.) Use a silicone or firm rubber spatula if needed.
6. Once doubled in size, shape your dough and grab a piece of parchment paper. Nestle it into a parchment-lined hot Dutch oven.
7. Press the jalapeno slices into the top of the dough. The scoring is your personal touch—a baker's signature.
8. Bake with the lid on to create a signature crust.
9. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tip: If you like this recipe, try my recipe for Sourdough Discard Focaccia Bread. So good!
Why bake bread in a Dutch oven
Baking bread in a Dutch oven or lidded cast iron pot always makes me feel like a real old-time homestead baker, especially when baked in a wood burning cookstove. And the heavy lid traps steam inside, mimicking a professional bread oven's atmosphere.
This steamy environment creates that artisanal crust we all love. Plus, the even heat distribution ensures an even oven temperature so your loaf cooks perfectly from edge to edge. Remember to use oven mitts, as that cast iron pot is HOT.
What to serve with it
Pairing your jalapeño cheddar bread recipe with the right dishes can turn a simple meal into a feast. Consider these options:
A hearty chili that mirrors the bread's robustness.
A fresh salad to balance out the flavors.
Your favorite lentil soup, with this bread as the ultimate dipping companion. But honestly, a slice of this bread goes well with any dutch oven soup recipes.
And if you find yourself with leftovers, toast slices for a spicy take on croutons or an indulgent grilled cheese. It's a frugal yet fancy way to savor every last crumb.
FAQs
Is this your first time making artisan bread in a Dutch oven? No worries. Here are a few tips to help you get the best results.
How should I store this bread?
Wrap your cooled jalapeno bread in a clean kitchen towel and keep it in a bread box or loosely in a paper bag. It keeps the crust crispy and the inside soft for about two days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze it in an airtight container.
Can I make this bread with other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests plenty of sharp cheddar cheese, experiment with different cheese types.
A pepper jack would double down on the heat. At the same time, a milder mozzarella cheese might appeal to those who prefer a gentle backdrop to their jalapenos.
What if I don't have a Dutch oven?
No Dutch oven, no problem. Try a hot pot or heavy-covered casserole dish as an alternative. The key is to have a lid to trap steam, which is vital for that crusty exterior.
Dutch oven jalapeno bread is more than just another artisan bread recipe. This bread, with its fiery bites of jalapeno and rich, melted cheese, is a step up for the home baker ready to move beyond basic white bread.
Store it wisely, pair it with your favorite dishes and enjoy it to the last crumb. And remember, the best part about bread like this is sharing it with others. Happy baking!
Recipe
Dutch Oven Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups water hot
- 4 cups All-purpose flour aerated and divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 jalapeño peppers
- 1 ¼ cup cheese; shredded chopped, or small crumbles
Instructions
- Prep the jalapeño peppers by slicing ½ of jalapeño pepper into 4-5 ⅛” ring slices and set aside. Take the remaining 1 ½ jalapeños, and remove the stem, seeds, and white membrane. Finely dice the peppers and set aside. You can leave the seeds for extra spice.
- Shred the sharp cheddar cheese. Set aside.
- Add yeast to hot water and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add 3 cups of flour to a mixing bowl with the salt.
- Once the yeast is foamy, add the flour and work the mixture into a sticky but firm dough with your hands or a firm silicone spatula. Add the diced peppers and cheese and continue to work the dough.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let sit for 1 hour. The dough should double in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°f.
- Lightly flour a flat, dry surface and gently work the dough into a smooth, round loaf. Do not overwork the dough.
- Add a large piece of parchment paper to the Dutch oven and place your dough ball inside.
- Score the dough using a sharp knife with a fine edge or a razor blade. I like to score an “x” and ¼” deep.
- Lightly sprinkle the loaf with some cheese, and place the jalapeño slices flat around the top of the lid.,pressing them in slightly.
- Cover with the lid and cook at 450°f for 30 minutes.
- At 30 minutes, remove the lid and cook for 5-10 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Tap the loaf, as it should sound like a hollow drum.
- Let the loaf cool before slicing open.
Nutrition
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