The scent wafting through my kitchen brought me right back to those busy mornings filled with laughter and toast popping up from the toaster. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread—a delightful twist on your traditional breakfast staple. This savory loaf is a breeze to whip up, making it not only a fantastic choice for a cozy weekend baking project but also a perfect quick bread option for any weekday meal. With its crunchy crust and tender crumb, this bread creates irresistible nooks and crannies that are just begging to be slathered with butter or your favorite spread. Plus, you can easily mix in variations like buttermilk or different toppings, letting your creativity shine. Ready to dive into the delicious world of homemade bread? Let’s get started!
Why is This Bread a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: Effortlessly crafted, this Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread requires just a few ingredients and simple steps, perfect for home bakers of all skills.
Savory Richness: The blend of sharp cheddar and fresh scallions elevates each slice, offering a bold flavor profile that will impress breakfast guests and family alike.
Versatile Customization: Feel free to experiment with buttermilk substitutions or different cheeses like Gruyère; this recipe easily adapts to your taste preferences!
Perfectly Toastable: Those delightful nooks and crannies create a fantastic texture that’s ideal for toasting, making it a fantastic addition to any meal, breakfast or beyond.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served alongside soups or as a standalone treat, this bread promises to become a family favorite, just like my Homemade Bread Sunflower recipe!
Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- Coarse Yellow Cornmeal – Adds crunch and texture; substitute with fine cornmeal if needed.
- Instant Yeast – Provides leavening; can substitute with active dry yeast but bloom it first in warm water.
- Warm Water (110-115°F) – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Granulated Sugar – Aids in yeast activation and adds slight sweetness; can be reduced or omitted if desired.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity; regular salt can be used but reduce the quantity slightly.
- Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Adds depth of flavor; omit for a milder taste.
- Baking Soda – Works with buttermilk to add tenderness.
- Chopped Scallions – Provides a fresh, onion-like flavor; leeks can be a substitute.
- Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness and flavor; swap with another cheese like Gruyère for variety.
- Thick Buttermilk – Provides moisture and tang; mix yogurt with milk and vinegar as an alternative.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture; can be replaced with melted butter for added richness.
This Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread
Step 1: Bloom the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (110-115°F) with 2 teaspoons of instant yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture appears frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to help your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread rise.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
While waiting for the yeast to bloom, preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil, then dust the bottom with coarse yellow cornmeal to give your bread a crunchy texture. This simple preparation will help create that ideal golden crust on your English muffin bread.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh cracked black pepper. Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined to distribute the salt and baking soda evenly throughout the batter, setting a flavorful foundation for your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread.
Step 4: Add Flavors
Stir 1 cup of chopped scallions and 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese into the dry ingredients. Mix until the cheese and scallions are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This step infuses your bread with savory richness and vibrant flavors that will enhance every slice.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with 1 cup of thick buttermilk and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Stir everything together until just combined, forming a shaggy dough. The moisture from the wet ingredients will bring the dry ingredients together, paving the way for a delicious Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread.
Step 6: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface or keep it in the mixing bowl, then knead with your hands or use a dough hook on low speed for 4-6 minutes. The dough should become soft, slightly wet, and elastic. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed while maintaining its moisture—this consistency is key for your bread’s airy texture.
Step 7: Shape and Rest
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the top with a bit more cornmeal, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size, creating those perfect nooks and crannies essential for an airy English muffin bread.
Step 8: Bake
After the dough has risen beautifully, place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. This step not only develops that delicious crust but also creates the delightful aroma of fresh Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread wafting through your kitchen.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using a knife, gently loosen the sides if necessary, then transfer the bread to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing, as this will help maintain the loaf’s structure and texture, making each slice perfect for toasting.
Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread to suit your taste preferences!
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Plain Muffin Bread: Omit cheese and scallions for a classic English muffin bread that pairs well with any spread.
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Spicy Twist: Substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a deliciously spicy version that packs a flavor punch. The heat complements the bread’s crunchy crust beautifully!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or chives into the batter for an aromatic burst that enhances the savory profile, making each slice truly delightful.
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Sourdough Base: Replace half the all-purpose flour with sourdough starter for a tangy twist. This swap adds depth and complexity to the flavor, creating a delightful experience.
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Yogurt Alternative: Use a mix of yogurt with a splash of milk instead of buttermilk for a lighter and creamy texture that still keeps the moisture intact.
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Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder, creamier alternative that offers a different flavor experience. Each version brings its own unique charm to the table!
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Add Veggies: Fold in finely diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color, transforming your bread into a veggie delight that everyone will love.
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Berry Banana Bread: For a sweet twist, check out my Berry Banana Bread recipe! While it’s different from English muffin bread, it’s a delicious alternative when you’re in the mood for something sweet.
Get ready to enjoy this cozy bread with your custom touches, and watch how it becomes a new favorite in your baking repertoire!
What to Serve with Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience by pairing your warm, savory bread with dishes that enhance its flavors and textures.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: The vibrant tomato flavors complement the cheesy richness of the bread, making every bite feel comforting and hearty.
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Garlic Herb Butter: Elevate your toast by spreading a luscious garlic herb butter on warm slices, adding a burst of savory aroma that’s irresistible.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty bread, balancing the meal perfectly.
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Avocado Smash: The creaminess of ripe avocados paired with the bread’s crunch creates a delightful texture, ideal for brunch with friends.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, buttery scrambled eggs bring a morning classic together, enhancing the savory flavor profile of the cheddar and scallions.
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Crisp Bacon Strips: Pairing your English muffin bread with crunchy bacon provides a satisfying crunch, adding a salty kick that enhances the meal.
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Fruity Jam: For a touch of sweetness, a dollop of your favorite fruit jam adds a delightful contrast, making it perfect for breakfast or afternoon snacks.
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Sparkling Water or Mimosa: Refresh with a glass of sparkling water or a light mimosa, providing a bubbly, citrusy note that rounds out your delicious homemade feast.
Each of these pairings will create a memorable meal, highlighting the delightful characteristics of your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread
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Room Temp Buttermilk: Ensure your buttermilk is at room temperature; this helps activate the yeast and creates a better rise, resulting in a fluffier loaf.
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Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size. Rushing this step can lead to a denser bread with fewer nooks and crannies.
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Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh scallions and high-quality cheddar cheese. This will significantly enhance the flavor of your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread.
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Avoid Cutting Too Soon: Resist the urge to slice the bread until it has cooled completely; cutting too soon can cause it to lose its shape and moisture.
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Knead with Care: Knead the dough just until it’s soft and slightly wet. Over-kneading can make the bread tough; you want it tender and airy!
Storage Tips for Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread
Room Temperature: Store the bread wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container for up to 3 days—this keeps it fresh and soft.
Freezer: For longer preservation, slice the Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Toast slices directly from the freezer or thaw in the fridge overnight before warming in the oven or toaster for a deliciously fresh taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread loaves are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just follow the instructions until the “Shape and Rest” step, then cover your loaf pan tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it into the oven. For an even quicker option, you can bake the bread and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade bread ready to toast and enjoy any time, just as tasty as when it was freshly baked!
Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select the scallions for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose scallions that are bright green with firm, crisp stalks. Avoid any that are wilted or have dark spots, as these can affect the flavor and freshness of your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread.
How should I store Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread?
For optimal freshness, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze this bread? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread, slice it once completely cooled. Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. You can then toast slices directly from the freezer or thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or not enough warmth during the rising process. Ensure your warm water is at 110-115°F and that your yeast is fresh. If the dough is too dense, try placing it in a slightly warm area (like an oven set to its lowest temperature) to encourage rising.
Is this recipe suitable for someone with dietary restrictions?
Indeed! You can adjust this recipe to accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative and mix yogurt with plant-based milk and vinegar in place of buttermilk. Always check ingredient labels for allergens!
What do I do if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?
No problem! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute. Mix 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This quick alternative will work beautifully for your Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread!
Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Bread That'll Elevate Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water with instant yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit until frothy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a loaf pan with cooking spray and cornmeal.
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and cracked pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Add the yeast mixture, buttermilk, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Knead the dough for 4-6 minutes until soft and elastic, adjusting flour as necessary.
- Shape the dough into a loaf, place in the prepared pan, cover with a towel, and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.