Cheddar Jalapeno Sourdough Bread Recipe

Name: Cheddar Jalapeno Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup room-temperature water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup diced fresh or pickled jalapenos

Published: September 17, 2025

by Mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread is easy to make, even for novice bakers.
The balance of flavors—spicy jalapenos and creamy cheddar—is simply irresistible.
Its golden crust and gooey interior make it visually stunning and perfect for Instagram-worthy posts.
Enjoy it as a side dish or transform it into an epic grilled cheese sandwich!

Ingredients for cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Active Sourdough Starter: A bubbly starter brings that tangy flavor essential for sourdough. If you’re new to sourdough, it’s worth getting one from a friend or local bakery.
All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for better gluten development; this will help create that perfect chewy texture.
Water: Use room-temperature water to keep your yeast happy during fermentation.
Salt: This enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure; don’t skip it!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for bold flavor; it melts beautifully into the dough.
Jalapenos: Fresh or pickled, these little firecrackers add spice! Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by mixing your active sourdough starter with water in a large bowl until combined. Add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until you form a shaggy dough.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapenos gently. You want them evenly distributed without overworking the dough.

Step 3: Bulk Fermentation

Cover your bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 4-6 hours. You’ll notice it puffing up like a balloon—that’s your starter getting all bubbly!

Step 4: Shape Your Loaf

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it seam-side down into a floured proofing basket or bowl lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Final Proof

Cover again and let your shaped loaf rest for another hour while you preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Don’t rush this step—it’s where all that deliciousness happens.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Carefully transfer your loaf onto a baking stone or sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top. Transfer to plates and serve warm.

Now go ahead and slice up that glorious loaf! Serve it warm with butter or pair it with soups or salads—it’s scrumptious no matter how you enjoy it!

You Must Know

This cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread recipe is a flavor explosion.
It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the joy of baking something that makes your house smell like heaven.
Perfect for sandwiches or simply slathered with butter.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by activating your sourdough starter, then mix your ingredients for the dough. Let it rest and rise while you chop those spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar. Shape the dough, incorporate the cheese and jalapenos, then bake until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the cheese—Monterey Jack works wonders too! You can also adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapenos. For an extra flavor kick, consider tossing in some roasted garlic or herbs before baking.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop slices in a toaster or wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm it in the oven for about 10 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh jalapenos for a vibrant flavor boost; dried ones lack that zing.
Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active for best results.
Don’t rush the rising process; patience leads to better bread texture.

Baking this cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread always brings back memories of family gatherings. One time, I made a batch for a potluck, and it disappeared faster than I could say “sourdough.” The compliments kept rolling in; even my picky cousin was asking for seconds!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread?

To make cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with active sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, water, salt, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh or pickled jalapenos. These ingredients come together beautifully to create a flavorful loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or enjoying on its own.

How long does it take to make cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread?

Creating cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread typically requires a bit of time due to fermentation and proofing. Expect the entire process to take around 12 to 16 hours, including mixing, bulk fermentation, shaping, and final proofing. Patience is key here; the flavor develops significantly during this time.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is the star of cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a unique twist, while mozzarella will give you a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture slightly.

How do I store leftover cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread?

To store leftover cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread effectively, wrap it in parchment paper and then place it in a paper bag. This method allows the bread to breathe while keeping it fresh. You can also freeze slices for later use; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

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Conclusion for cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread:

In summary, making cheddar jalapeno sourdough bread is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With simple ingredients like sourdough starter, flour, cheese, and jalapenos, you can create a delicious loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Remember to allow enough time for fermentation to develop rich flavors. Enjoy your baking journey with this flavorful twist on classic sourdough!

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📖 Recipe Card