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Jalapeño-Cheddar Pull-Apart Bread

Jalapeño-Cheddar Pull-Apart Bread
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Jalapeño-Cheddar Pull-Apart Bread is a soft, fluffy, and chewy bread bursting with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this easy-to-make pull-apart loaf offers a delightful balance of bold flavors and a fun interactive eating experience ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Filling Ingredients

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Toppings

  • Extra shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sliced green onions
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Melted butter for brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water and let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter, stirring until it forms a smooth dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, finely dice the fresh jalapeños (remove seeds to reduce heat if desired) and shred the sharp cheddar cheese. In a bowl, combine the cheddar, diced jalapeños, and garlic powder, mixing well.
  3. Assemble the bread: After the dough has doubled in size, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Cut the dough into small squares. Generously layer each square with the jalapeño-cheddar mixture, then stack the squares in a greased loaf pan, creating a layered pull-apart effect.
  4. Final rise and bake: Cover the assembled loaf and allow it to rise again for 30-45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbling through the cracks. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.
  5. Serve: Optionally, brush the top of the bread with melted butter and sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese or sliced green onions. Pull apart to enjoy while warm.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and proper rising.
  • Do not skip the second rise to achieve fluffy, tender bread with distinct pull-apart layers.
  • Adjust the jalapeño heat by removing seeds or using more/less according to your spice tolerance.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for best melting quality and balanced flavor.
  • Brushing baked bread with melted butter adds shine and extra moisture.
  • You can prepare the loaf up to the second rise stage and refrigerate overnight, then bake before serving.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan cheese and plant-based butter.
  • To store leftovers, wrap tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes; avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jalapeño-Cheddar Pull-Apart Bread, cheesy bread, spicy bread, appetizer, snack, party food

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/jalapeo-cheddar-pull-apart-bread/