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Crispy Crust, Cheesy Center: No-Knead Cheese Bread

This no-knead cheese bread is the perfect blend of crispy crust and soft, cheesy interior. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a bakery-quality loaf right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it alongside a meal, making an epic grilled cheese, or enjoying it on its own, this bread is guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 95°F – 105°F)
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 11 ½ cups shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or a combination)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
    • Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
    • Fold in the shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
  2. Let It Rise:

    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
    • Let the dough rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours until doubled in size and bubbly.
  3. Shape the Dough:

    • Lightly flour a clean surface and gently shape the dough into a ball.
    • Let it rest for 30-45 minutes while preheating the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  4. Bake to Perfection:

    • Place a Dutch oven or heavy-lidded pot in the oven for 30 minutes to preheat.
    • Carefully transfer the dough to the preheated pot. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
    • Remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Cool & Serve:

    • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter or on its own!

Notes

  • Cheese Options: Use a combination of cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for meltiness, or parmesan for a salty bite.
  • No Dutch Oven? Bake on a regular baking sheet with a pan of hot water in the oven for a crisp crust.
  • Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight bag for up to 3 days or freeze slices for later use.
  • Enhance the Flavor: Add garlic, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a unique twist.