Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

This Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the perfect balance of spice and cheese. It’s an easy recipe that makes a moist and tender loaf, ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. The bold flavors of jalapeños combined with the richness of cheddar make it a standout choice for any meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This jalapeño cheddar bread takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a quick and satisfying bake.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy jalapeños and rich cheddar cheese creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your taste buds.
• Versatile Option: Enjoy this bread warm with butter, as a side dish, or even as part of a sandwich. Its uses are endless!
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests at gatherings with this savory bread—it’s sure to be a hit at parties and family meals alike.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store for later! This bread stays fresh and delicious for several days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Jalapeño Cheddar Bread, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Loaf pan (9-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Loaf pan: A 9-inch loaf pan is perfect for achieving the right shape and size for your jalapeño cheddar bread.
• Parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal of the bread after baking.

Ingredients

This easy jalapeño cheddar bread recipe is loaded with spice & cheese. It’s a great savory quick bread with a moist, tender crumb.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 Cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Cheesy Goodness

• 2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 Cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 Jalapeno, diced small

Wet Ingredients

• 2 Eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup Milk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup Butter, melted

How to Make Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it’s ready when you need it.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.

Step 4: Combine All Dry Ingredients

Add the sugar, salt, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños. Mix well until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Prepare Wet Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Then add in the melted butter while mixing until just combined.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Scoop the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If desired, garnish the top with additional jalapeño slices. Bake in your preheated oven for 60-80 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean when poked into the center of the loaf. Check at the 45-minute mark to see if it needs covering with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can also enjoy it warm!

With these steps, you’ll have delicious Jalapeño Cheddar Bread ready to savor!

How to Serve Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

Jalapeño cheddar bread is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its spicy and cheesy flavor pairs well with various accompaniments, making it perfect for any meal or snack.

With Soups

• Spicy Chili: The heat from the chili complements the jalapeños in the bread.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: The cheese balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

As a Sandwich

• Turkey and Avocado: Layer turkey and avocado slices for a delicious sandwich.
• Egg Salad: Spread a hearty egg salad for a unique breakfast option.

For Breakfast

• With Butter and Jam: A simple spread of butter and your favorite jam enhances its flavor.
• Toasted with Eggs: Serve it warm, toasted, alongside scrambled eggs.

As an Appetizer

• Cheese Board: Slice it up and include it in a cheese platter with crackers.
• Dipping Sauce: Pair with spicy ranch or guacamole for dipping.

How to Perfect Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

Making jalapeño cheddar bread is easy, but these tips will help you achieve the best results.

• Boldly Dice Jalapeños: Ensure your diced jalapeños are small enough to distribute evenly throughout the bread.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and milk at room temperature for better mixing and rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture; overmixing can make it dense.
• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly; an inaccurate temperature can affect baking time.
• Cool Properly: Let the bread cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for extra heat or flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

Jalapeño cheddar bread pairs wonderfully with several side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the bread.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies offer a smoky flavor that complements the bread’s spices.
3. Guacamole: This creamy dip enhances flavors and adds an extra kick of zest.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa provides brightness and acidity, which pairs well with the savory notes of the bread.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw serves as a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the heat.
6. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips provide texture and are great for dipping into salsas or sauces served on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making jalapeño cheddar bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some to watch out for:

• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to avoid inconsistencies.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the bread tough. Mix until just combined for a light, tender texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into warm bread can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can affect how well the batter combines. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover jalapeño cheddar bread in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Toast each side of the slice for 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding jalapeño cheddar bread:

Can I use other types of cheese?

You can definitely customize this recipe! Feel free to mix different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh jalapeños?

If fresh jalapeños aren’t available, you can use pickled jalapeños or even jalapeño powder as an alternative.

How spicy is jalapeño cheddar bread?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you add and their heat level. For milder bread, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

How long does it take to bake?

The baking time is typically between 60-80 minutes. Always check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Final Thoughts

This easy jalapeño cheddar bread recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various spices or cheeses according to your taste preferences. Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even breakfast treat!