Vegan Jalapeno Cheddar Artisan Bread
This Vegan Jalapeno Cheddar Artisan Bread is crispy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with spicy jalapenos and creamy vegan cheddar. Perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying on its own. Easy to make with an overnight rise for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour or bread flour for extra chewiness and structure. If you prefer a slightly denser and chewier loaf, bread flour is a great choice as it has higher protein content, which enhances gluten formation.
- 2 teaspoons salt balances the flavors and enhances fermentation. Salt is essential because it controls yeast activity and brings out the depth of flavor in the bread.
- 2 teaspoons sugar helps activate the yeast and adds slight sweetness. Sugar provides a food source for the yeast, allowing it to ferment efficiently and giving the bread a nice rise.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast or active dry yeast, both work well. Instant yeast does not need to be activated separately and can be mixed directly with dry ingredients, making the process more convenient.
- 1 ½ cups warm water about 110°F, to activate the yeast and create the perfect dough texture. Using water at the right temperature ensures that the yeast is activated properly for the best rise and structure.
- 1 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese Violife, Daiya, or Miyoko’s work well. Using a high-quality vegan cheese is important, as it ensures a melty, cheesy texture throughout the bread.
- 2 jalapeños finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat, or keep them for extra spice). Jalapeños add a subtle heat and fresh crunch, making every bite flavorful and exciting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil adds moisture and improves the overall texture. Olive oil helps create a soft and tender crumb while also adding a richness to the bread.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
- Garlic powder or onion powder – Enhances the savory profile by adding a subtle umami taste. If you love garlic bread this will give your bread a similar delicious aromatic quality.
- Chopped green onions – Adds a fresh slightly sweet and tangy flavor, which complements the jalapeños and cheese perfectly.
- Smoked paprika – A wonderful way to introduce a smoky depth of flavor making the bread even more flavorful and rich.
- Nutritional yeast – This ingredient is well-known for its cheesy nutty flavor and can enhance the vegan cheddar taste while also adding some extra nutrients.
Instructions
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast until well combined.
- Slowly pour in warm water, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Fold in vegan cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños, ensuring even distribution.
First Rise (12-18 Hours)
- Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise at room temperature overnight.
- The dough should double in size and become bubbly on the surface.
Shaping the Dough
- Lightly flour a work surface and transfer the dough onto it.
- Gently shape it into a round loaf, folding the edges inward.
- Place the dough onto a parchment-lined proofing basket or bowl.
- Let it rise for another hour before baking.
Baking the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Place a Dutch oven or cast-iron pot inside to heat for 30 minutes.
- Carefully place the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover it, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Cooling & Serving
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool before slicing.
- Enjoy warm with vegan butter or avocado spread!
Notes
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg