Description

Easy Dutch Oven Cheddar Bread is a simple, cozy bread recipe featuring melty plant-based cheddar (plant-based) folded into a soft dough baked in a Dutch oven for a perfect crunchy crust and tender interior. Ideal for any meal or snack, this bread offers rich flavor, minimal hands-on time, and that inviting homemade aroma.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon natural baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)

Add-ins

1 cup plant-based cheddar (plant-based), shredded or chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, natural baking powder, and salt. In a separate container, whisk warm water, olive oil, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and apple cider vinegar (natural). Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
Fold in the Plant-Based Cheddar: Gently fold the plant-based cheddar (plant-based) into the dough, ensuring even distribution without overworking the mixture to create melty bites throughout the bread.
Let the Dough Rest: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest for 30 to 40 minutes to develop texture and a slight rise, resulting in a tender loaf.
Shape and Place in Dutch Oven: Lightly flour your hands and shape the dough into a round loaf. Place it carefully inside a preheated Dutch oven lined with parchment paper. Cover with the lid to trap steam for a crispy crust.
Bake to Perfection: Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes covered. Remove the lid and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crackly.
Cool and Enjoy: Remove the bread and cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes to complete the baking process and improve slicing.

Notes

Use warm water around 100°F to activate the natural gelling agent without affecting leavening.
Do not skip resting times after mixing and baking for best texture and flavor.
Preheat the Dutch oven to ensure a crispy crust.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make loaf removal easier.
Try different plant-based cheddars to vary sharpness and meltability.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of loaf)
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

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