No-Knead Cheese Bread Recipe
Introduction
This no-knead cheese bread is a simple, rustic loaf packed with melty, flavorful cheese. It requires minimal hands-on time but delivers a golden, crusty bread perfect for sandwiches or snacking. Perfect for home bakers looking for an easy, cheesy treat!
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour (or all-purpose in a pinch)
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 1½ cups very warm water (~120°F)
- 2½ cups freshly shredded Colby Jack (or your favorite meltable cheese)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. Stir in the warm water until a sticky, shaggy dough forms. Fold in the shredded cheese gently. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Step 2: About 30 minutes before the dough has finished rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside, keeping the lid on.
- Step 3: Once risen, scrape the dough onto a floured piece of parchment paper. Gently shape it into a rough ball—don’t worry about perfection; rustic is best.
- Step 4: Carefully lift the dough on the parchment paper and place it into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the bread is deep golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Step 5: Remove the bread and let it cool on a rack for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Tips & Variations
- Always shred the cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor.
- If you use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour, the bread will be softer but still delicious.
- Try swapping Colby Jack with other favorite meltable cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavors.
Storage
Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer keeping, freeze slices in an airtight container or bag. Reheat frozen slices by toasting or warming in the oven to enjoy fresh-tasting bread.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast, but you’ll need to proof it first in warm water and reduce the water slightly in the dough.
Do I need a Dutch oven to bake this bread?
While a Dutch oven is ideal for creating steam and a crispy crust, you can bake the bread on a preheated baking stone or heavy baking sheet covered with a large metal bowl for a similar effect.
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No-Knead Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
Description
This No-Knead Cheese Bread is a delightfully easy and rustic bread recipe that combines the convenience of no-kneading with the rich, melty flavor of freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese. With a simple mix, an easy rise, and baking in a hot Dutch oven, this bread develops a crispy, golden crust and a chewy interior, perfect for sharing or enjoying warm with butter.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour as a substitute)
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups very warm water (~120°F)
Cheese
- 2½ cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese (or your favorite meltable cheese)
Instructions
- Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, instant yeast, and kosher salt. Pour in the very warm water and stir until a sticky, shaggy dough forms. Fold in the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat: About 30 minutes before the dough is finished rising, place a Dutch oven with its lid inside your oven and preheat it to 450°F (230°C). This ensures the Dutch oven is very hot for baking.
- Shape: Once risen, scrape the dough onto a piece of floured parchment paper. Gently shape it into a rough ball shape, maintaining a rustic look. No extensive kneading or shaping is required.
- Bake: Carefully lift the parchment paper with the dough and place it inside the hot Dutch oven. Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is a deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and transfer it onto a wire rack. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the rich cheesy aroma and texture.
Notes
- Always shred cheese fresh for maximum melt and best texture.
- If using all-purpose flour instead of bread flour, expect a softer texture, though it will still be delicious.
- Store any leftover bread wrapped at room temperature or freeze slices for convenient toast later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: no knead bread, cheese bread, easy bread recipe, Dutch oven bread, homemade bread, Colby Jack cheese bread
