If you love the bold kick of spicy peppers combined with the comforting richness of melted cheese, then you are going to fall in love with this Cheddar Jalapeño Bread Recipe. This savory quick bread brings together sharp cheddar and fiery jalapeños in a gorgeous golden loaf that’s perfect for dunking in hearty soups, serving alongside chili, or simply enjoying toasted for breakfast. The texture is delightfully moist yet tender, with bursts of cheese and just the right amount of heat in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a delicious snack to spice up your day, this bread is guaranteed to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Cheddar Jalapeño Bread Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a vital role, from the sharpness of the cheddar to the subtle heat of the jalapeños and the light, fluffy crumb created by the baking powder.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to the bread while keeping it tender.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise and achieve a lovely light texture without yeast.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the cheese.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, creamy punch and delightful melty pockets throughout the loaf.
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced: Add a fresh, bright heat that wakes up every bite without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps blend all ingredients smoothly.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Brings richness and tenderness to the crumb.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the bread’s soft texture.
How to Make Cheddar Jalapeño Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready once your batter is mixed. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the rising agent and salt, which will help your bread bake to perfection.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Jalapeños
Now, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños into your dry ingredients. Mixing these early ensures the cheese and peppers are evenly spread throughout the loaf, giving every slice that perfect hit of savory spice and gooey cheese.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. This combination creates the moist, tender base that will complement the robustness of the cheese and jalapeños.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay. Overmixing can lead to a tougher bread, and we want this loaf soft and inviting.
Step 5: Bake Your Bread
Grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking and pour in your batter. Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with that irresistible aroma of melted cheddar and spicy jalapeño.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the loaf set so your slices hold together beautifully without crumbling.
How to Serve Cheddar Jalapeño Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra flair by sprinkling freshly chopped cilantro or a light drizzle of honey on top of warm slices for a sweet-heat contrast. Thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a smear of herb-infused cream cheese can also elevate your presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This cheddar jalapeño bread pairs wonderfully with robust pairings such as a bowl of smoky chili, creamy tomato soup, or a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette. The bold flavors of the bread stand up nicely to rich or acidic dishes, creating a satisfying meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just slicing and serving. Try toasting thick slices and topping them with avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt for a delicious snack, or use the bread to make spicy grilled cheese sandwiches. You can even cube it to add flavorful croutons to salads or soups!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap your leftover cheddar jalapeño bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for 2 to 3 days without losing its moistness or flavor.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and slightly crispy on the edges. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent a gummy texture.
FAQs
Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Using pickled jalapeños will give your bread a milder, tangier heat, and add a bit of extra flavor complexity. Just be mindful that they might introduce a little extra moisture, so drain them well before adding.
Is this bread gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose wheat flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with gluten-free baking flour blends, but results may vary in texture.
How spicy is this bread?
The heat level depends on the jalapeños you use. If you want a milder bread, remove all seeds and membranes from the peppers. For those who love more spice, leave some seeds in or add an extra jalapeño.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Definitely! Sharp cheddar lends a classic flavor, but you could try pepper jack for more spice or a milder cheese like mozzarella if preferred. Just keep it shredded for easy mixing.
How should I store leftover bread to keep it fresh?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Jalapeño Bread Recipe is such a fantastic way to bring bold, comforting flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort. From its golden crust to the cheesy, spicy crumb inside, it’s sure to become a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a side, or a tasty sandwich base, I encourage you to try it out soon and make it your own. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cheddar Jalapeño Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory quick bread loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños, delivering a perfect balance of heat and cheesy goodness. This cheddar jalapeño bread is easy to make and pairs wonderfully with soups, chili, or enjoyed on its own as a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cheese and Jalapeños
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add Cheese and Jalapeños: Stir the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños into the dry mixture, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare Pan and Bake: Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then pour the batter into it, smoothing the top evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For milder heat, substitute fresh jalapeños with pickled jalapeños.
- This bread is excellent for making savory sandwiches or toasting for an extra crunch.
- Make sure to seed the jalapeños well if you prefer less spice.
- Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly to keep the bread moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
