Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups
- Instant dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
- Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Warm water (105-115°F): 1 1/4 cups
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Melted butter: 2 tablespoons (for brushing)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually incorporate 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the dough.
- Step 2: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a 5-6 quart Dutch oven (with lid) in the oven while it preheats.
- Step 4: Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Drizzle olive oil in the bottom of the Dutch oven and gently place the dough inside. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the dough.
- Step 5: Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
- Step 6: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Brush the top with melted butter, if desired.
Notes
- To keep leftover bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
- Reheat slices in a toaster oven or a skillet with a touch of butter for that warm, melty cheese pull.
- Serve this cheddar bread with a hearty soup or chili for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- For an extra cheesy crust, gently press the cheddar into the dough's surface before the final bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American