Easy & Delicious No-Knead Cheese Bread

Easy & Delicious No-Knead Cheese Bread

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:

1. 1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
      • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
   2. 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.

       

   3. 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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.

       

   3. 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.

1. 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.