Introduction to Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Welcome to the world of Jalapeño Cheddar Bread! I know a lot of you are crazy busy like I always seem to have a million things going on, but still, crave a warm, yummy treat to enjoy with your family…enter this bread. It’s that good. So not just a good ‘quick’ fix for a busy evening, rather, an entrée worthy of proud serving to company on big occasions or cozy weekend brunches.
Think of a loaf that’s golden with jalapeños for a spicy kick and cheddar for rich creaminess. This recipe marries comfort with a little bit of excitement-–warmth convenience food you’ll be happy to make from scratch and share at the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Let me tell you, this Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is a game-changer! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, even on the busiest of days. You’ll find yourself savoring the delightful combination of spicy jalapeños and gooey cheddar in every bite. This bread’s vibrant flavors and inviting aroma make it a showstopper, whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Gathering your ingredients for Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is part of the fun! Each element plays a crucial role in crafting this delicious loaf. Let’s take a quick look at what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bread. It provides the structure and fluffiness. You could use whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but your texture might change a bit.
- Baking powder: Our little leavening agent helps the bread rise like a dream. Don’t confuse it with baking soda; they’re not interchangeable!
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the spicy notes of the jalapeños. You could swap it for brown sugar for a richer flavor, if you prefer.
- Salt: A must-have for enhancing all those wonderful flavors. Without it, your bread might taste a bit dull.
- Onion powder: This adds another layer of savory goodness. If fresh onions are on hand, feel free to use them instead, though it may affect the moisture content.
- Parmesan cheese: It brings a subtle nutty flavor and complements the cheddar beautifully. Use freshly grated parmesan for a richer taste!
- Cheddar cheese: Of course, this is the star of the show! Opt for sharp cheddar for more flavor or mild if you prefer something more subtle.
- Jalapeños: Diced small, these provide the perfect spice. For those who like things fiery, consider adding a few more or using different chili peppers.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs help bind everything together, giving the bread its lovely texture.
- Milk: This liquid love adds moisture and richness. Feel free to substitute with your favorite non-dairy milk.
- Butter: Melted butter adds decadent flavor and tenderness to the loaf. If you’re looking to cut back, you can swap some for a vegetable oil of your choice.
For exact measurements of each ingredient, you’ll find them at the bottom of the article, which you can easily print out. Getting your ingredients right is key to baking success!
How to Make Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Making Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is a delightful journey that starts in your kitchen! With these simple steps, you’ll find yourself whipping up a delicious loaf in no time. Let’s dive into the magic of bread-making!
Preheat the Oven
First things first! Preheating your oven to 350 degrees F is crucial. This ensures even baking, helping your bread rise beautifully. Trust me, skipping this step could lead to disappointing results. A well-preheated oven sets the stage for perfection!
Prepare the Loaf Pan
Next, let’s get your loaf pan ready for action. Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan thoroughly. Don’t forget to line it with parchment paper for easy removal! Nothing beats taking out a loaf without it crumbling. A little extra care here goes a long way!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together those dry ingredients. Start with the flour and baking powder, then add sugar, salt, onion powder, and the delicious spices. Sifting helps to aerate the flour, making your bread light and airy. You want those flavors mingling well!
Mix in the Cheeses and Jalapeños
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Stir in the grated Parmesan, shredded cheddar, and diced jalapeños. Use a wide spatula for this. Make sure everything is well combined; you want those cheesy bits and spicy punch in every slice. The aroma will instantly get your taste buds dancing!
Whisk Eggs and Milk
Grab a small bowl and whisk together the eggs and milk. It’s best to use room temperature eggs and milk for a creamy texture. This mixture adds moisture to your dough, creating a lush, tender loaf. A little love here will make a world of difference!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the egg and milk mixture into your dry ingredients. Here’s a tip: mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough bread, and we definitely want a soft crumb. Think gentle folding instead of vigorous stirring. Your hands can work magic!
Bake the Bread
Scoop the batter into your prepared loaf pan, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with jalapeño slices on top. Pop it into that preheated oven and let it bake for 60-80 minutes. Keep an eye on it! Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.
Cooling the Bread
Once baked, let your loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently remove it and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important to achieve the perfect texture. But it’s hard to resist warm bread, so slice into it while it’s still a bit warm if you like!
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- To avoid stickiness, ensure your loaf pan is well-greased and lined.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; let the bread cool completely for the best texture.
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs for unique flavors!
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch loaf pan: A standard baking pan works well, but a silicone one can make for easy removal.
- Mixing bowls: Any size will do; just make sure they’re deep enough to prevent spills.
- Whisk: A simple hand whisk is perfect, or use an electric mixer for convenience.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is ideal for folding in ingredients.
- Sifter: If you don’t have one, a fine mesh strainer can work just as well.
Variations of Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
- For a zesty twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes alongside the jalapeños for a burst of flavor.
- Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese to crank up the spice factor even more!
- If you’re seeking a healthier option, use whole wheat flour and reduce the amount of butter for a lighter version.
- Mix in some chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or chives, to add a touch of freshness.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free blend.
- For a vegan option, replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a non-dairy milk and butter.
Serving Suggestions for Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
- Pair warm slices with a creamy avocado dip for a delightful appetizer.
- Enjoy it alongside a hearty bowl of chili for a comforting meal.
- Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light lunch.
- A chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the spice perfectly.
- For a special touch, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
FAQs about Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Feeling curious about Jalapeño Cheddar Bread? You’re not alone! Here are some common questions and their answers that can help enhance your baking experience:
Can I make Jalapeño Cheddar Bread without eggs?
Absolutely! You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. Use one tablespoon of flaxseed meal and two and a half tablespoons of water for each egg. This will help bind your ingredients while keeping it vegan!
How can I store leftover bread?
Store any leftover Jalapeño Cheddar Bread in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for even longer shelf life, but be sure to heat it up before serving!
Can I freeze Jalapeño Cheddar Bread?
Yes! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying it again.
What can I serve with Jalapeño Cheddar Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve it with dips like guacamole or salsa. The possibilities are endless!
How do I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder bread, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes, which hold most of the heat. On the flip side, add more jalapeños or opt for spicy cheese if you crave an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
Making Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is more than just a baking session; it’s an experience filled with warmth and joy. Each bite not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with a delightful aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen. Whether it’s served at a family gathering or as a quick weeknight side, this bread creates memorable moments. I love how easy it is to make, yet it feels so special. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this flavorful loaf bring a little excitement to your table. Happy baking!
Print
Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
- Total Time: 75-95 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously spicy and cheesy bread featuring jalapeños and cheddar, perfect for any occasion.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease and flour a 9 inch loaf pan and line with a piece of parchment paper for easy removal.
- Sift the flour and baking powder into a large mixing bowl.
- Mix in the sugar, salt, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos.
- In a small bowl whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Slowly stir into the dry ingredients, then add the melted butter, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop batter into your prepared loaf pan, garnish the top of the dough with jalapeno slices if desired, and bake bread for 60-80 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean when poked into the centre of the loaf. *Check at the 45 minute mark to see if the bread needs to be covered with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.
- Allow to cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to finish cooling on a wire rack, or enjoy warm!
Notes
- Check the bread at the 45-minute mark to avoid over-browning.
- For an extra kick, add more jalapeños or use spicy cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-80 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
