Cheese Bread

Cheese Bread Recipe with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Jalapeño Pepper

Preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 to 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cheese bread is a delicious and savory bread that is perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheddar and parmesan cheese with the heat of jalapeño peppers and the freshness of parsley and green onions. The result is a flavorful and cheesy bread that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Cheese bread has been a popular dish for many years, with variations of the recipe found in different cultures around the world. The combination of cheese and bread has been a staple in many cuisines, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. This particular recipe combines the flavors of cheddar and parmesan cheese with jalapeño peppers and fresh herbs to create a delicious and savory bread that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

2.75 cups bread flour, divided
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 package dry yeast, about 2.25 tsp
1 cup very warm water, 120 to 130°F (54°C)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
cooking spray
0.25 cup minced fresh parsley
0.25 cup (1 oz / 28 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
0.25 cup (1 oz / 28 g) grated fresh parmesan cheese
3 tbsp minced jalapeño pepper
3 tbsp minced green onions
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
0.13 tsp black pepper
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg white, lightly beaten
2 tsp water

How to prepare

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a chef's knife.
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add 1 cup of very warm water and 1 tbsp of oil; stir until well-blended.
Add 1.5 cups of flour and stir until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic (about 8 minutes). Gradually add enough of the remaining flour, 1 tbsp at a time, to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands (the dough will feel tacky).
Place the dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat the top.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place (85°F (29°C)), free from drafts, for 45 minutes or until it has doubled in size. (Press two fingers into the dough. If the indentation remains, the dough has risen enough.)
Punch the dough down and roll it into a 15x10 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
In a bowl, combine parsley and the next 7 ingredients. Spread the parsley mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 0.5 inch border.
Roll up the rectangle tightly, starting at the long side, and press firmly to eliminate air pockets. Pinch the seam and ends to seal.
Place the roll, seam side down, on a large baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Using a sharp knife, make 0.25 inch-deep diagonal cuts across the top of the loaf.
Cover and let the loaf rise for 35 minutes or until it has doubled in size. In a separate bowl, combine the egg white and 2 tsp of water, and gently brush it over the dough.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Bake the loaf at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool the loaf on a wire rack. Serve it warm, plain, or with other side dishes, main dishes, or appetizers.

Variations

You can customize this cheese bread recipe by adding different types of cheese, herbs, or spices. Try using mozzarella, feta, or gouda cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted garlic for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making cheese bread, it is important to use very warm water (120 to 130°F) to activate the yeast and help the dough rise. Kneading the dough until smooth and elastic is also key to creating a light and fluffy bread. Be sure to let the dough rise in a warm place free from drafts to ensure that it doubles in size. Brushing the loaf with an egg white wash before baking will give it a beautiful golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

Cheese bread can be served warm as a side dish or appetizer. It pairs well with soups, salads, and pasta dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making cheese bread is to knead the dough until smooth and elastic, and to let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Brushing the loaf with an egg white wash before baking will give it a beautiful golden crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour instead. You can also use dried herbs instead of fresh, or omit the jalapeño peppers for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for cheese bread in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking. Leftover cheese bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve cheese bread on a wooden cutting board or platter for a rustic presentation. You can also slice it into individual portions and arrange them on a serving tray with dipping sauces or spreads.

Pairing Recommendations

Cheese bread pairs well with a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, and pasta. It also goes well with grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. Serve it with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cheese bread contains approximately 200 calories. Calories are a measure of the energy content of food and are important for maintaining a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cheese bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of cheese bread contains approximately 8 grams of fat. Fat is an essential nutrient that provides energy, helps the body absorb vitamins, and supports cell growth. It is important to consume healthy fats in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Each serving of cheese bread contains approximately 7 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and is an important component of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheese bread is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while vitamin A and C are essential for overall health and immune function.

Alergens

Cheese bread contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before consuming cheese bread.

Summary

Cheese bread is a delicious and savory bread that is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a tasty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer.

Summary

Cheese bread is a delicious and savory bread that is perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheddar and parmesan cheese with the heat of jalapeño peppers and the freshness of parsley and green onions. It is a tasty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Cheese Bread. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany. My grandmother, Nonna Maria, was known far and wide for her delicious cooking, and it was in her bustling kitchen that I first learned the art of preparing this savory bread.

One crisp autumn day, as the leaves were turning shades of gold and red, Nonna Maria invited me to help her bake a special treat for our family. She had a gleam in her eye as she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card, yellowed with age and stained with the marks of countless meals.

"This," she said with a smile, "is my secret recipe for Cheese Bread. It has been passed down through our family for generations, and now it is time for you to learn the magic of creating it."

I watched in awe as Nonna Maria deftly mixed together flour, yeast, and water, her hands moving with a grace and skill that only comes from years of practice. She added a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese, the sharp scent filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.

As the dough rose and baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. The anticipation of tasting this special creation was almost unbearable. When the Cheese Bread emerged from the oven, golden and crusty on the outside, and soft and cheesy on the inside, I knew that I had just experienced a culinary masterpiece.

From that day on, Cheese Bread became a staple in our household. Nonna Maria would bake it for special occasions, family gatherings, or just as a comforting snack on a lazy Sunday afternoon. And each time she made it, she would pass on her knowledge and love for cooking to me, her eager apprentice.

As I grew older and ventured out into the world, I carried the recipe for Cheese Bread with me like a cherished treasure. I shared it with friends, neighbors, and anyone who was lucky enough to taste its deliciousness. And with each batch I baked, I felt a deep connection to my roots, to my grandmother, and to the traditions that had been passed down through the ages.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different types of cheeses, herbs, and spices. But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe for Cheese Bread will always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of baking bread and memories of days gone by, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift that my grandmother gave me so many years ago. The gift of a simple recipe, passed down through the generations, that has brought joy, comfort, and deliciousness to all who have tasted it.

So the next time you bite into a warm slice of Cheese Bread, remember the stories and traditions that have gone into creating that simple yet magical dish. And perhaps, like me, you will be inspired to pass on the recipe and the love for cooking to the next generation. After all, some things are just too good not to share.