Cheddar Jalapeño Pull Apart Bread

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about pulling apart warm, cheesy bread, especially when it’s loaded with the bold flavors of cheddar and jalapeños. This Cheddar Jalapeño Pull Apart Bread has become a household favorite in my family. Whether it’s game day, a casual get-together, or simply a cozy night in, this dish always receives rave reviews. The combination of melty cheese and the zing of pickled jalapeños creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Every time I prepare this bread, I’m reminded of the joy it brings to our gatherings. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeño peppers, drained

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Butter a loaf pan, then line it with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides for easy removal.

Roll Out the Dough

3. On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 10×20 inches.

Add Toppings

4. Brush the melted butter over the dough.
5. Evenly sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the buttered dough, then top with sliced jalapeños.

Cut and Stack the Dough

6. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough lengthwise into three long strips.
7. Then, cut each strip into six squares.
8. Carefully stack four to six squares at a time, trying to keep as much cheese intact as possible.

Place in the Pan

9. Place each stack of squares vertically into the prepared loaf pan, arranging them snugly next to each other.

Bake

10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, until the bread is puffed and golden brown.

Serve

11. Allow to cool slightly before serving. For added flavor, serve with warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing on the side.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the bread into individual squares for easy serving.
• Pair with warm marinara sauce for a delightful dip.
• Offer ranch dressing for those who prefer a creamier option.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Dough: Fresh pizza dough from a local bakery or store yields the best results, but refrigerated store-bought dough works fine too.
2. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference—leave them out for a milder version!
3. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like pepper jack for extra spice or gouda for a smoky flavor.
4. Add Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano to the cheese mixture for an aromatic touch.
5. Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the bread warm right out of the oven, as it enhances the cheesy goodness.

Recipe Variations

• Italian Twist: Replace jalapeños with sun-dried tomatoes and basil for an Italian-inspired flavor.
• BBQ Chicken: Add cooked, shredded chicken mixed with BBQ sauce to the cheese and jalapeño filling for a heartier snack.
• Spinach and Feta: Substitute jalapeños with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean version.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add minced garlic to the melted butter and use a mix of different cheeses for a cheesy garlic bread twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Game Day Snack: Perfect for football season, pair with wings or sliders.
• Party Platter: Serve alongside a variety of dips and snacks at a gathering.
• Picnic Treat: Pack it for a picnic; it’s delicious at room temperature as well.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pull apart bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore the cheese’s melty texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?

• Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe!

1. What if I don’t have pickled jalapeños?

• You can use fresh jalapeños, just be sure to slice them thin and adjust the amount to your spice preference.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the bread in advance and bake it just before serving.

1. What can I serve this with?

• It pairs well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy cheese dip.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• You can use gluten-free pizza dough to make this dish gluten-free.

1. How do I know when the bread is done?

• The bread should be puffed and golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

1. Can I add more cheese?

• Absolutely! Feel free to load it up with extra cheese for a cheesier experience.

1. What if my dough isn’t rising?

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water is warm, not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast.

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

• Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack.

1. How do I reheat leftovers?
   • Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Cheddar Jalapeño Pull Apart Bread is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, enjoying it as a snack, or using it as a side dish for dinner, its cheesy, spicy goodness will leave everyone wanting more. So why not give this easy recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

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