When it comes to enticing aromas and mouthwatering flavors, few things can compare to freshly baked bread. One of the standout choices for impressive home baking is Jalapeño Cheddar Bread. This deliciously spicy and cheesy loaf combines the bold kick of jalapeños with the rich creaminess of cheddar, making it a perfect addition to any meal or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a new side to complement your main dish, or simply want to elevate your breakfast toast game, this bread ticks all the boxes!
The appeal of Jalapeño Cheddar Bread goes beyond just its flavors. It’s also a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any advanced baking skills. With simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, you can whip up a loaf that will impress both friends and family. Picture slicing through a beautifully baked loaf and discovering the gooey melted cheese and spicy jalapeños throughout—it’s a delightful experience!
Aside from being a feast for the taste buds, Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is versatile. Enjoy it warm with butter, pair it with soups, or even toast it for sandwiches. Its savory flavor profile lends itself to numerous pairings, making it a staple in your baking repertoire. So, are you ready to learn how to make this scrumptious Jalapeño Cheddar Bread?
Why You’ll Love This Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spicy jalapeños and rich cheddar is simply mouthwatering.
- Easy to Make: Perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side, sandwich bread, or even as toast.
- Customizable: Load it with additional cheese or spices according to your preference.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into baking your Jalapeño Cheddar Bread, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen. Start by gathering your ingredients and tools. You’ll need: a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, a spatula, a loaf pan (preferably 9 inches), and parchment paper for easy bread removal.
Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature, which is 350 degrees Fahrenheit for this recipe. Proper measurement is crucial, so measure your flour and other ingredients accurately, preferably by weight for the best results. Grate the cheddar if you haven’t already and finely dice the jalapeño, making sure to wear gloves if you are sensitive to peppers.
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to enjoy the rewarding experience of baking fresh bread!
Ingredients
- 2 Cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 Cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 Jalapeno, diced small
- 2 Eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup Milk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup Butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This temperature is optimal for baking your bread perfectly, allowing the outside to develop a golden crust while the inside stays soft and cheesy.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan thoroughly. This step is important not only for preventing the bread from sticking but also for ensuring an easy release once it’s baked. Line the bottom with a strip of parchment paper as an extra precaution for seamless removal.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Sifting helps create a lighter texture for your bread. Next, mix in the granulated sugar, salt, onion powder, grated parmesan, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños. The key here is to ensure everything is well combined so each bite is infused with flavor!
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the room temperature eggs and milk until blended. This step ensures that the eggs integrate smoothly into the batter, preventing any clumps of egg from forming later in your bread.
Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients
Slowly stir the egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no more dry streaks. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf than desired. Once combined, gently fold in the melted butter, ensuring everything is moist and nicely mixed.
Step 6: Pour into Pan & Bake
Scoop the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you’re feeling adventurous, garnish the top with additional jalapeño slices for decoration. Then, place in the preheated oven and bake for 60-80 minutes. Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark—if the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The bread is done when a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps set the structure. After cooling, carefully remove the bread from the pan using the parchment paper for assistance. Let it cool completely on a wire rack, though it’s also delightful served warm!
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist.
- Vegetables: Consider incorporating corn, roasted red peppers, or green onions for added flavor.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor profile with spices like smoked paprika or cumin for a smokier note.
Cooking Notes
- Store any leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to four days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; it can be frozen for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice and serve with a pat of butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
- Pair it with a bowl of chili, soup, or salad for a delightful meal.
Tips
- Make sure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending.
- For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-80 minutes
- Total Time: 75-95 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 232 per slice
- Protein: 8 grams
- Sodium: 320 mg
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly grated cheese typically melts better and provides a creamier texture.
How spicy is this bread?
The level of spiciness depends on the type and amount of jalapeños used. You can deseed them for a milder flavor.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the bread a day or two in advance and store it in a cool place wrapped tightly.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Yes, adding fresh herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin can give this bread a unique twist.
Conclusion
In summary, Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is an outstanding recipe that brings together flavor, simplicity, and versatility. Baking this bread not only fills your kitchen with incredible aromas but also results in a loaf that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to gourmet brunches. We encourage you to give this recipe a try—experiment with your own variations, and feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!
Print
Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
- Total Time: 75-95 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
This deliciously spicy and cheesy loaf combines the bold kick of jalapeños with the rich creaminess of cheddar.
Ingredients
- 2 Cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 Cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 Jalapeno, diced small
- 2 Eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup Milk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup Butter, melted
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This temperature is optimal for baking your bread perfectly, allowing the outside to develop a golden crust while the inside stays soft and cheesy.
- Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan thoroughly. This step is important not only for preventing the bread from sticking but also for ensuring an easy release once it’s baked. Line the bottom with a strip of parchment paper as an extra precaution for seamless removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Sifting helps create a lighter texture for your bread. Next, mix in the granulated sugar, salt, onion powder, grated parmesan, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños. The key here is to ensure everything is well combined so each bite is infused with flavor!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the room temperature eggs and milk until blended. This step ensures that the eggs integrate smoothly into the batter, preventing any clumps of egg from forming later in your bread.
- Slowly stir the egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no more dry streaks. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf than desired. Once combined, gently fold in the melted butter, ensuring everything is moist and nicely mixed.
- Scoop the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you’re feeling adventurous, garnish the top with additional jalapeño slices for decoration. Then, place in the preheated oven and bake for 60-80 minutes. Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark—if the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The bread is done when a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps set the structure. After cooling, carefully remove the bread from the pan using the parchment paper for assistance. Let it cool completely on a wire rack, though it’s also delightful served warm!
Notes
Store any leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to four days or in the fridge for up to a week. To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; it can be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-80 minutes
- Category: Bread
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 232 per slice
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Protein: 8 grams