Craving fresh-baked bread without the hassle of kneading? This Easy & Delicious No-Knead Cheese Bread is the answer. It requires minimal effort and yields a rustic loaf with a delightful cheesy interior and a crispy crust. Perfect for busy home cooks, this recipe delivers a comforting and satisfying bread with just a few simple steps.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- First Rise: 3-5 hours
- Second Rise: 1-2 hours
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 5-7 hours
Ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups, plus extra for dusting
- Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons
- Instant Yeast: ½ teaspoon (or active dry yeast)
- Warm Water: 1 ¼ cups (around 95°F – 105°F)
- Olive Oil: ¼ cup
- Shredded Cheese: 1 – 1 ½ cups (cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or a combination)
Instructions:
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
- Make the Dough:
- Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hand until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky but manageable.
- First Rise:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 3-5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Incorporate the Cheese:
- Once risen, gently fold in the shredded cheese with a spatula. Reserve some cheese if desired for sprinkling on top before baking.
- Shape and Second Rise:
- Lightly flour a work surface and your hands. Transfer the dough to the floured surface and fold it over itself a few times to shape it into a round loaf. Place seam-side down in a well-floured Dutch oven or baking dish. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours.
- Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Remove the lid or cover from the Dutch oven/baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the interior set and prevents excessive cheese oozing.
Additional Information:
- Active Dry Yeast vs. Instant Yeast: Both work for this recipe. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5 minutes before adding to the dry ingredients.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Gouda. Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Soups: Pair with your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
- With Salads: Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete lunch or dinner.
- As a Snack: Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
Conclusion:
Skip the store-bought bread and enjoy the simplicity of this No-Knead Cheese Bread. With minimal effort, you’ll have a homemade loaf that’s warm, cheesy, and perfect for any meal. Ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture might be denser. You may need to adjust the water amount. - Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Yes, try adding chopped herbs, garlic, or cooked bacon for extra flavor. - What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
Use any oven-safe baking dish or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Can I make this bread without cheese?
Yes, simply omit the cheese for a plain no-knead bread. - How do I store leftover bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating. - How do I reheat the bread?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. - Can I use non-dairy cheese?
Yes, non-dairy cheese can be used as a substitute. - Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can let it rise in the refrigerator overnight and then proceed with shaping and the second rise. - What if my dough doesn’t rise as expected?
Ensure the dough is in a warm environment and check that your yeast is fresh.
Enjoy baking this delightful No-Knead Cheese Bread!