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Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread Recipe

4.5 from 88 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to create a well-distributed leavening base.
  3. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly throughout the dry mixture, ensuring cheesy pockets in the bread.
  4. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk and melted butter, combining the rich flavors and moisture for the dough.
  5. 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.
  6. Shape Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf, preparing it for baking.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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