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Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread

Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread


  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread is a simple and satisfying homemade bread recipe featuring a golden crust and melty plant-based cheddar (plant-based). Made with essential ingredients including all-purpose flour, natural gelling agent, and enhanced with grape juice for flavor and color, it is perfect for any meal or snack. Utilizing a Dutch oven ensures a perfect crust and fluffy crumb, making it an ideal bread for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 cup shredded plant-based cheddar (plant-based)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons grape juice
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Leavening

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Begin by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm water mixed with a splash of grape juice, stirring gently until it becomes frothy. This activates the yeast and sets the stage for a good rise.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, natural gelling agent, and shredded plant-based cheddar (plant-based). Tossing these ingredients ensures the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) into the dry ingredients. Stir while gradually adding the remaining grape juice until a sticky dough forms that pulls away from the bowl’s edges.
  4. First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm area until it doubles in size, usually around 1 to 1.5 hours. This slow fermentation enriches the dough’s texture and flavor.
  5. Shape and Second Rise: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, gently fold it a few times to shape it into a ball, then place it in the preheated Dutch oven. Cover and allow it to rise again for about 30 minutes to develop its fluffy interior.
  6. Bake the Bread: With the lid on the Dutch oven, bake the bread in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes to get the perfect golden crust and bubbly cheese pockets.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes. This resting time allows the crumb to set, making slicing easier and preserving flavor.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to help the yeast activate evenly for consistent rising.
  • Preheat your Dutch oven to ensure a crispy crust and even baking from the start.
  • Don’t rush the rising; patience yields better flavor and airy crumb.
  • Handle dough gently to keep bubbles intact for a light, fluffy texture.
  • Store bread in a breathable cotton bag to keep crusty without trapping moisture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Dutch oven bread, plant-based cheddar bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, cheesy bread, vegan bread