Crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, this Ultimate No-Knead Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread delivers an explosion of sharp cheddar flavor in every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The long, slow rise develops a complex flavor, while the Dutch oven creates the perfect environment for a crusty exterior and a tender crumb. The addition of cheddar cheese elevates this classic bread to a new level of deliciousness, creating pockets of melted, gooey goodness.
This no-knead cheddar bread is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave the comfort of homemade bread but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s also fantastic as a weekend baking project, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread and melted cheese. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, alongside a hearty soup, or use it to create unforgettable sandwiches.
Why you’ll love this Ultimate No-Knead Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread with No Knead Cheddar Bread
- Minimal effort, maximum flavor – this recipe requires no kneading!
- The Dutch oven creates a perfectly crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior.
- The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delicious, savory element to every bite.
- It’s a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
- This ultimate no knead cheddar bread is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
- The aroma of baking bread with cheese will fill your kitchen and warm your soul.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
No knead cheddar bread makes every moment feel lush. For a bolder flavor, use extra-sharp cheddar cheese. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor. If you want to add a savory element, consider adding garlic powder or dried rosemary to the dough.
How to make Ultimate No-Knead Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 2: Add Water and Form Dough
Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky. Don’t worry, that’s perfectly normal for a no-knead bread.
Step 3: First Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for at least 12 hours, or up to 18 hours. This long, slow rise is what develops the complex flavor of the bread.
Step 4: Preheat Dutch Oven
After the rising time, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside. The Dutch oven needs to be screaming hot to create that perfect crust.
Step 5: Shape Dough
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Generously dust a piece of parchment paper with flour. Gently turn the dough out onto the prepared parchment paper.
Step 6: Add Remaining Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the dough. Using the parchment paper as handles, carefully lower the dough into the hot Dutch oven.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven using the parchment paper. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Chef’s Tip: Letting the bread cool completely is crucial. If you slice it too soon, the inside will be gummy.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your Dutch oven is preheated properly – this is key to a crispy crust.
- Don’t be afraid of the sticky dough! It’s what makes this bread so easy.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy interior.
- For even more flavor, experiment with adding different herbs and spices to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate No-Knead Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread is delicious served warm with butter, as a side for soup or chili, or as the base for grilled cheese sandwiches. It also pairs well with a simple salad like this easy chicken enchiladas recipe for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap a slice in foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also toast slices for a crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, you can freeze this bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
While a Dutch oven is ideal, you can bake this bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. However, the crust won’t be as crispy.
In conclusion, this Ultimate no knead cheddar bread recipe is a game-changer for home bakers. It’s simple, delicious, and requires minimal effort, delivering a bakery-quality loaf every time. The combination of a crispy crust, chewy interior, and sharp cheddar flavor is simply irresistible. Try it today and experience the joy of homemade bread without the fuss! Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!
Ultimate No-Knead Cheddar Dutch Oven Bread
This no-knead cheddar bread, baked in a Dutch oven, delivers an irresistibly crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior bursting with sharp cheddar flavor. The simple recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking projects. Enjoy the comforting aroma and taste of homemade bread without the fuss of traditional kneading. The melted cheddar creates pockets of gooey goodness throughout the loaf, making each bite a delightful experience. This Dutch oven bread is perfect served warm with butter, as a side for soup, or for making delicious sandwiches.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for at least 12 hours, or up to 18 hours.
- After the rising time, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside. The Dutch oven needs to be screaming hot.
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Generously dust a piece of parchment paper with flour. Gently turn the dough out onto the prepared parchment paper.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the dough. Using the parchment paper as handles, carefully lower the dough into the hot Dutch oven.
- Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
- Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven using the parchment paper. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a more intense cheddar flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese. You can also add other herbs and spices to the dough, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried rosemary. Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg