Jalapeno Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread features a meticulously crusty exterior paired with a tender and airy interior. This delightful bread boasts a perfect blend of spicy jalapeno peppers and rich cheddar cheese that infuses each slice with a bold, savory flavor. Ideal for serving alongside a hearty stew or as a stand-alone snack with a dab of butter!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Serves: about 8

IIngredients:

3 1/2 C. All purpose flour

1  tsp Salt

2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 standard .25oz packet)

2 C. Shredded cheddar cheese, divided 1 3/4 C. for the bread, 1/4 C. for the top.

1 large jalapeno diced

2 C. Water (temperature should be between 110 -120 degrees)

What to do:

In a big bowl, mix the flour, salt, yeast, cheddar, and jalapeno together. Pour water into the bowl and, using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix until well incorporated and until no dry flour remains. The mixture will be wet, shaggy, and very sticky to the touch. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit on your counter for 1 to 3 hours; it should double in size. After the dough is ready, preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Place your Dutch oven, with the lid, into the preheated oven for 30 minutes. While this is happening, get your dough ready. Punch down the dough. Generously flour a sheet of parchment paper, transfer the dough to the parchment, and with floured hands shape it into a ball by only folding the dough over on itself a few times. Top dough with plastic wrap or a clean dish towel to rise for 30 minutes. Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven and remove the lid (be careful; it’s very hot!). Place the parchment paper with dough in the Dutch oven and sprinkle the 1/4 C. of cheddar cheese on top, replace the lid. Bake for 45 minutes with the lid on, after which remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Remove the bread from the pot; it should come out easily. Let cool completely before slicing into it and serving.