Craving fresh-baked bread without the hassle of kneading? Look no further than this Easy & Delicious No-Knead Cheese Bread recipe! This recipe is a dream come true for busy home cooks, requiring minimal effort and yielding a satisfyingly rustic loaf bursting with melty cheese.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (around 95°F – 105°F)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 – 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or a combination)
Instructions:
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Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
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Make the Dough: Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hand, mix until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky, but that’s okay!
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First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel (to prevent the dough from drying out). Let the dough rise in a warm place for at least 3-5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Incorporate the Cheese: Once the dough has risen, gently fold in the shredded cheese using a spatula. You can add all the cheese at once, or reserve some for sprinkling on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust.
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Shape and Second Rise: Lightly flour a work surface and your hands. Gently transfer the dough to the floured surface. Don’t knead the dough – just fold it over itself a few times to shape it into a round loaf. Place the shaped dough seam-side down in a well-floured Dutch oven or baking dish. Cover again and let it rise for another 1-2 hours.
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Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once preheated, remove the lid or cover from the Dutch oven/baking dish. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Enjoy! Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the interior to finish cooking and prevents the cheese from oozing out excessively.
More Information:
- Active Dry Yeast vs. Instant Yeast: Both types of yeast work in this recipe. If using active dry yeast, simply activate it by dissolving it in warm water (around 105°F) with a pinch of sugar for 5 minutes before adding it to the dry ingredients.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations! Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Gouda would all work well. You can even try adding some chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving Suggestions: This No-Knead Cheese Bread pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or simply enjoyed warm with a pat of butter.
Conclusion:
So ditch the store-bought bread and whip up a loaf of this Easy & Delicious No-Knead Cheese Bread! It’s a fantastic recipe for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a warm, cheesy, and satisfying homemade bread that’s perfect for any occasion.