This Cheddar Cheese Butter Bread is a simple, flavorful, and tender bread that combines the richness of butter and cheddar cheese for a soft and savory loaf. With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe creates a deliciously cheesy bread that’s perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or serving alongside soups and stews. The golden, cheesy crust and soft, buttery interior make this an instant favorite for any occasion.
Cuisine: European-inspired
Yield: 1 medium loaf
Method: Baking
Diet: Vegetarian
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 grams)
- 300 milliliters water (about 1 1/5 cups)
- 420 grams flour (approximately 2 2/3 cups), plus 1 additional tablespoon for dusting
- 100 grams cheddar cheese, grated
- 100 grams butter, melted
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Slowly add 300 ml of water, stirring continuously until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
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Incorporate Butter and Cheese:
- Gradually knead in the melted butter, ensuring it is fully absorbed into the dough.
- Fold in the grated cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly throughout the dough.
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Rest the Dough:
- Cover the dough again and let it rest for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
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Shape and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lightly flour a work surface and shape the dough into a round or loaf shape.
- Place the dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with extra butter or your favorite spreads.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice – Based on 10 Slices)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
The Origins and Popularity of Cheddar Butter Bread
Cheddar cheese and butter have long been staples in baking, particularly in European and American cuisine. Cheesy breads can be found in French, Irish, and British baking traditions, where buttery doughs and rich cheeses are commonly used in everything from scones to rustic loaves.
In the United States and the UK, cheese-infused bread became popular in the 20th century, often served alongside soups, stews, or grilled meats. This recipe takes inspiration from classic cheddar biscuits and savory butter rolls, transforming them into a simple yet flavorful bread. The combination of butter and cheese creates a loaf that’s moist, tender, and bursting with rich flavors, making it a favorite in home kitchens worldwide.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, Buttery Texture: The melted butter gives the bread an ultra-soft crumb.
- Cheesy and Flavorful: The cheddar cheese adds a savory, tangy bite.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal kneading make this a beginner-friendly bread.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve with soups, stews, or as a sandwich bread.
Health Benefits of Cheddar Cheese Butter Bread
- Good Source of Calcium: Cheddar cheese provides essential calcium for bone health.
- Energy-Boosting Carbs: The flour base supplies sustained energy.
- Healthy Fats: Butter contains essential fats that aid digestion and brain function.
- Protein-Rich: Cheese adds protein, helping with muscle repair and growth.
Serving Suggestions
- With Soup: Pair with tomato soup, French onion soup, or a creamy potato soup.
- For Breakfast: Toast a slice and spread with butter, honey, or jam.
- As a Side: Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or pasta.
- For Sandwiches: Use it for grilled cheese sandwiches or as a base for avocado toast.
Tips
- For a Crispy Crust: Bake with a small dish of water in the oven to create steam.
- To Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the dough.
- For Extra Flavor: Mix in garlic powder or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Storage Tip: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
- Garlic Cheddar Bread: Add minced garlic or garlic powder for extra depth of flavor.
- Herb-Infused Version: Mix in chopped rosemary, thyme, or chives for a fragrant loaf.
- Jalapeño Cheddar Bread: Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Conclusion
This Cheddar Cheese Butter Bread is the perfect combination of buttery softness and cheesy richness, making it a must-try for bread lovers. Whether enjoyed on its own, toasted, or served with a warm bowl of soup, this savory, golden loaf is an easy and satisfying addition to any meal. With its simple ingredients and irresistible flavor, this homemade bread is bound to become a household favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda for different flavors. -
Can I use milk instead of water?
Yes, replacing water with milk will make the bread even richer and softer. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. -
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Freeze slices in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. -
How can I make this bread fluffier?
Knead the dough well and let it rest longer for a softer texture.