Vegan Jalapeno Cheese Artisan Bread Recipe
Make this Vegan Jalapeño Cheese Artisan Bread at home! Spicy, cheesy, and dairy-free, it’s a simple recipe perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- Bread Flour 3 ½ cups: Provides the structure needed for that classic artisan texture.
- Salt 1 ½ teaspoons: Enhances the flavors and balances the spice.
- Instant Yeast 1 teaspoon: Ensures a quick and consistent rise for your dough.
Wet Ingredients:
- Warm Water 1 ½ cups: Activates the yeast and helps form a smooth, pliable dough.
- Olive Oil 1 tablespoon: Adds a hint of richness and keeps the bread tender.
Add-Ins:
- Fresh Jalapeños 2, finely chopped: Brings a gentle heat and bright flavor. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount based on your desired level of spice.
- Vegan Cheese 1 cup, shredded: Opt for a melty variety like cashew or almond-based cheese for the best texture and taste.
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame Seeds or Sea Salt: Sprinkle on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
Tips for Ingredient Success
- Choosing Flour: Bread flour works best for an artisan loaf but all-purpose flour can be a substitute if needed.
- Perfect Jalapeños: For mild heat remove the seeds and membranes; for more spice, leave them intact.
- Vegan Cheese Options: Experiment with different brands or homemade cheese to find your favorite combination.
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and instant yeast. Mix thoroughly to ensure the dry ingredients are well combined.
- Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough begins to form.
- Add the chopped jalapeños and shredded vegan cheese, incorporating them into the dough so they are evenly spread throughout.
Knead and Rest
- Move the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it feels smooth, stretchy, and cohesive. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour sparingly.
- Place the dough in a clean bowl lightly coated with oil to prevent sticking.
Shape the Dough
- Once the dough has doubled in size during its rest, gently deflate it by pressing down on it with your hands to release the air.
- Place the dough on a floured surface and gently form it into a round or oval loaf, tucking the edges under to create a smooth surface on top.
Second Rise
- Position the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or inside a proofing basket. Cover it loosely and allow it to rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven during preheating to ensure it’s thoroughly heated.
- For extra texture, you can brush the top of the loaf with water and sprinkle it with sesame seeds or sea salt.
- Bake the bread:
- If using a Dutch oven: Carefully transfer the dough into the preheated pot, cover it with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
- If baking on a sheet: Place the bread on the center rack and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden and produces a hollow sound when tapped.
Cool and Enjoy
- After baking, set the bread on a cooling rack to cool fully before slicing. This ensures the interior sets properly and makes for cleaner slices.
- Serve it with vegan butter, as a side to soup, or simply enjoy it as is—it’s wonderfully flavorful on its own!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Fat: 6g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 250mg