Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread Recipe
Introduction
This Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread is a warm, cheesy loaf with a golden crust and soft interior. Perfect for pairing with soups or enjoying on its own, it’s simple to make and delivers comforting flavors every time.

Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the milk and melted butter.
- Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Step 6: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a round ball.
- Step 7: Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven and cover with the lid.
- Step 8: Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
- Step 9: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme for added aroma.
- Make sure not to overmix the dough to keep the bread tender.
- If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a heavy oven-safe pot with a lid can work as a substitute.
Storage
Store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack depending on your taste preference.
Do I need to use a Dutch oven to bake this bread?
A Dutch oven helps create steam which results in a crispy crust, but you can use any heavy, oven-safe covered pot. Just make sure it fits your dough comfortably.
PrintDutch Oven Cheddar Bread Recipe
This Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread recipe is a simple and comforting homemade bread with a cheesy twist. Combining all-purpose flour, sharp cheddar, and a touch of butter, this bread is baked to a golden crust in a Dutch oven, resulting in a tender, flavorful loaf perfect for any meal or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the bread in the Dutch oven.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to create a well-distributed leavening base.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly throughout the dry mixture, ensuring cheesy pockets in the bread.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk and melted butter, combining the rich flavors and moisture for the dough.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the wet milk and butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which could make the bread tough.
- Shape Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf, preparing it for baking.
- Bake Covered: Place the dough ball into the preheated Dutch oven and cover it with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the bread to rise and begin baking with steam trapped inside.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid from the Dutch oven and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This step crisps the crust and creates a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy the warm, cheesy bread as a delicious side or snack.
Notes
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the Dutch oven inside for best results.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor; mild cheddar can be used for a subtler taste.
- The dough should be handled lightly to maintain bread tenderness.
- Allow the bread to cool a bit to set the crumb before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
- For a crustier loaf, you can leave the bread uncovered for the last 20 minutes instead of 15.
Keywords: Dutch Oven Bread, Cheddar Bread, Homemade Bread, Easy Bread Recipe, Cheesy Bread

