### **Cheddar Cheese Bread**
Cheddar Cheese Bread is a warm, savory bread that combines the tangy richness of cheddar cheese with the comforting texture of freshly baked bread. This delicious loaf is perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or just enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. The savory depth of flavor from the cheese, combined with the soft, slightly chewy texture of the bread, makes it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Its versatility allows it to shine at the dinner table or as a snack, bringing comfort and flavor to every bite.
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### **Origin**
Cheddar Cheese Bread has roots in traditional European baking, where cheese was often incorporated into bread to enhance flavor and make use of abundant local ingredients. The practice of adding cheese to bread dates back centuries in countries with strong cheese-making traditions, particularly in the UK and parts of Europe. The use of cheddar, a robust cheese from England, became increasingly popular as it is one of the world’s most widely enjoyed cheeses. Over time, the combination of cheddar cheese with bread became a favorite in many kitchens worldwide, evolving into various recipes and forms, including this soft, flavorful loaf.
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### **Cultural Significance**
In many cultures, bread and cheese are staples in daily life. Cheddar Cheese Bread has special significance in regions where cheddar cheese is a local specialty, such as the United Kingdom and the United States. It is often associated with hearty, comfort foods and is frequently served as a side dish with rich, flavorful soups and stews. This bread is particularly popular in gatherings, picnics, and barbecues, where its savory taste complements a variety of dishes. It embodies the idea of rustic, simple comfort food, often enjoyed in both casual and festive settings.
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### **Ingredients Quantity**
For one 9-inch loaf (about 8 servings):
– **All-purpose flour**: 3 cups
– **Baking powder**: 2 ½ tsp
– **Salt**: ½ tsp
– **Sugar**: 1 tbsp
– **Unsalted butter**: ¼ cup (softened)
– **Cheddar cheese**: 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar, grated
– **Milk**: 1 cup
– **Egg**: 1 large (beaten)
– **Garlic powder**: 1 tsp (optional, for extra flavor)
– **Chopped fresh herbs** (optional): 2 tbsp (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
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### **Optional Additions**
– **Spices and Herbs**: A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add a subtle heat, while fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano will enhance the aroma and flavor of the bread.
– **Other Cheeses**: You can substitute or combine cheddar with other cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda, for different textures and flavors.
– **Bacon**: Adding cooked, crumbled bacon to the batter gives a savory, smoky twist.
– **Sun-dried Tomatoes**: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of tangy flavor that pairs well with cheddar.
– **Chopped Jalapeños**: For a spicy kick, chop up fresh or pickled jalapeños and fold them into the batter.
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### **Tips for Success**
1. **Grate the cheese yourself**: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture of your bread. Freshly grated cheddar will melt and integrate better into the dough.
2. **Don’t overmix**: Overmixing the batter can result in dense bread. Stir the ingredients together until just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
3. **Let the dough rest**: After mixing, let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes before baking. This helps the ingredients meld together and enhances the flavor.
4. **Check for doneness**: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is done. If it comes out wet, bake a few more minutes.
5. **Brush with butter**: For a golden finish, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking. This will give the bread a glossy, deliciously buttery crust.
6. **Serve warm**: This bread is best served warm, fresh from the oven, to fully enjoy the melty cheese and soft crumb.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the dry ingredients**: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add any optional herbs or spices at this stage.
3. **Mix the wet ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, and softened butter. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. **Add the cheese**: Fold in the grated cheddar cheese (and any optional ingredients like garlic powder, herbs, or bacon).
5. **Transfer to the pan**: Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Optionally, brush the top with melted butter for a golden finish.
6. **Bake**: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. **Cool and serve**: Let the bread cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve while warm.
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### **Description**
Cheddar Cheese Bread is a soft, fluffy loaf with a savory, cheesy interior and a slightly crisp, golden crust. The bread has a mild sweetness from the sugar and butter, which complements the sharp, tangy flavor of the cheddar cheese. As you slice into it, you’ll find pockets of melted cheese throughout, which add richness and flavor. The texture is light yet hearty, with a slight chewiness from the cheese, making it perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or serving alongside a warm bowl of soup or stew.
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### **Nutritional Information (per serving)**
– **Calories**: 250-300 kcal (depending on portion size and cheese type)
– **Protein**: 8-10 grams
– **Fat**: 14-18 grams
– Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
– **Carbohydrates**: 25-30 grams
– Fiber: 1-2 grams
– Sugars: 2-3 grams
– **Sodium**: 400-500 mg
– **Calcium**: 150-200 mg (from cheese)
– **Iron**: 1-2 mg
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### **Conclusion**
Cheddar Cheese Bread is a comforting and versatile baked good that elevates any meal. Its rich, cheesy flavor and soft texture make it a perfect accompaniment to hearty soups or stews, or a satisfying snack on its own. With its relatively simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an ideal recipe for novice and seasoned bakers alike. Whether served fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
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### **Recommendation**
If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent bread recipe, Cheddar Cheese Bread is a great choice. Its rich flavor and soft crumb make it an ideal side for soups, salads, or even as a snack with a bit of butter or jam. For an added twist, try adding some herbs, spices, or bacon to personalize the recipe to your taste. This bread is a perfect addition to any meal that could use a savory, cheesy boost.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While Cheddar Cheese Bread is undeniably indulgent, there are ways to make it slightly healthier without sacrificing flavor. Opt for whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content, or reduce the amount of butter and cheese for a lighter version. You can also use low-fat cheese to cut back on saturated fat. As with all indulgent recipes, moderation is key—enjoy a slice or two as part of a balanced meal, and savor the rich flavors without overindulging.