Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread: A Spicy, Cheesy Delight

If you are among those who love the bold flavors of jalapeños and cheddar but would like a plant-based alternative, then this Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread is right for you! This bread is quite crispy on the exterior, soft and airy within, and perfectly balances spicy and cheesy flavors. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this no-knead recipe is easy to follow and delivers bakery-quality results. Enjoy it as a snack, a side, or even as the foundation for a delicious sandwich. Let's dive into the details and start baking!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread

If you love fresh, homemade bread with a flavorful kick, then you have to try this Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread! With a crispy golden crust and a soft, cheesy, spicy interior, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, snacking, or as a side to your favorite soups and stews. Plus, it's 100% plant-based, making it an excellent choice for vegans and those looking to enjoy dairy-free options without sacrificing taste.

So What Makes This Bread Special?

• The taste is remarkably delicious: spices from jalapeños and depth from vegan cheddar cheese with no compromise whatsoever on the real deal.
• There is no complicated effort in crafting this no-knead artisan bread, providing a gourmet feeling in every take.
• Dairy-free & vegan: all flavors of cheddar jalapeño bread without containing any animal ingredient.
• Perfect crisp on the out, airy interior and soft right to the center - just perfect like artisan should be.
• Versatile for Any Meal: Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with endless serving possibilities.

Let's dive right into everything you need to make this amazing loaf.

Ingredients for Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, to give an intensely subtle smoky depth)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar adds a hint of tang and aids in rise.

Flavor Boosters:

• 1 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese (Violife or Daiya)
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños, seeds removed for milder heat or kept for extra spice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, optional but highly recommended
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, for deeper savory flavor

Optional Toppings:

• Extra shredded vegan cheddar for topping
• Sliced jalapeños for garnish
• Flaky sea salt for an added crunch on the crust

How to Make Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Mix together flour, salt, sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and instant yeast in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add warm water, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Please make sure to mix well the chopped jalapeños and shredded vegan cheddar.

Step 2: First Rise (12-18 Hours)

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours. It should be double in size with a bubbly surface. The flavor and texture of this dough will be much better due to the long fermentation process.

Step 3: Shape the dough

Once the dough has risen, turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it gently into a round loaf to avoid over handling and losing that airy texture. Place it on a piece of parchment paper.

Step 4: Second Rise (30-45 minutes)

Let it rest covered again for 30-45 minutes. Heat up the oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven while preheating and start baking.

Step 5: Bake Bread

Transfer the dough (on the parchment paper) to the preheated Dutch oven or onto a baking sheet. Cover with a lid if using a Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Cool & Enjoy

Take the bread out of the oven and let it sit on a wire rack for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing. This will set the structure and ensure perfect texture.

Pro Tips and Variations to Make the Best Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Bread

1. Use a Dutch Oven: Its crust is ultra crispy. Baking in a covered Dutch oven traps steam.
2. Hydration Matters: The dough will be sticky, but resist the urge to add more flour! The high hydration level ensures a soft interior.
3. Handle the Dough Gently: Overworking the dough can deflate air pockets, leading to a denser loaf.
4. Let It Cool Before Slicing: Cutting too early releases steam and can make the bread gummy inside.
5. Fermentation Enhances Flavor: A longer rise time allows for a more complex, tangy flavor.

Creative Variations

Want to customize this recipe to your taste? Try these entertaining variations:

• Doubly cheesy: Sprinkle more vegan cheddar on the top before baking for a crusted, melting golden crust
• Smoky and spicy: Just add a dash of smoked paprika or some cayenne pepper for spice
• Herbed: Add freshly chopped chives, parsley, or thyme. This is what makes it nice and fragrant
• Stuffed bread: layer more vegan cheddar inside by making a hole in the middle and filling up the dough; then shape.
• Whole Wheat Option: Use half of the flour to be whole wheat for a more robust loaf.
• Nutty Crunch: Add some sesame or sunflower seeds to the crust for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Simple & Delicious Ways to Enjoy It

This can be toasted with vegan butter to have a wonderful, crispy warm slice with plant-based butter melting over it.

• Sandwich base: This can be used to make grilled cheese, avocado toast, or just a good ol' sandwich.
• It can also be served along with tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or even chili for an incredibly filling meal.
• Side dish for brunch: Slice and serve with scrambled tofu, roasted vegetables, or just a fresh salad.
• Dipping bread: Serve with hummus, guacamole, or spicy vegan cheese dip.
• Breakfast delight: Top with mashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Conclusion

Why This Recipe Is a Keeper

• Easy & No-Knead: Great for first-time bakers who want to make artisan-quality bread with less effort.
• Tremendously Flavorful: The spicy kick of jalapeños and creamy vegan cheddar in every bite makes it irresistibly delicious.
• Versatile & Customizable: You can have it mild, extra cheesy, or smoky-according to your taste.
• Good for Any Meal: Enjoy it as a snack, side dish, or main meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This bread will please the most demanding guests at any gathering or dinner party.

Ready to Bake?

You now have all the steps and tips to make the best Vegan Jalapeño Cheddar Artisan Bread. Now, roll those sleeves up and start baking. Gather your ingredients, get your oven preheated, and get ready to indulge in that loaf of goodness. However you use it, it is sure to become a kitchen favorite. Happy baking!