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Artisan Cheesy Bread

A crusty, rustic, no-knead artisan bread loaded with pockets of gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 265

Ingredients
  

Dough Base
  • 3.5 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups warm water around 95°F/35°C
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
Cheese & Add-ins
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella cheese freshly grated
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese grated, for topping
  • 1 tbsp fresh herbs rosemary, thyme, or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for greasing the bowl

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Dutch oven with lid
  • Parchment paper
  • Bread Lame or Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, kosher salt, and instant yeast.
  2. Pour in the warm water and mix until a shaggy, sticky dough forms and no dry flour remains.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the dough, cover the bowl tightly, and let rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours (or overnight in the fridge for best results).
  4. Turn the risen dough onto a generously floured surface and stretch it gently into a rough rectangle.
  5. Sprinkle the cheddar cubes and shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, then fold the edges into the center to enclose the cheese.
  6. Shape the dough into a tight round ball (boule) and place it on a sheet of parchment paper.
  7. Cover lightly and let the dough rise for a second time for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  8. While the dough rests, place a covered Dutch oven into the oven and preheat it to 450°F (230°C).
  9. Score the top of the risen dough with a sharp knife and sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
  10. Carefully transfer the dough (using the parchment paper) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
  11. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
  12. Cool on a wire rack for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Using cubed cheese rather than shredded cheddar ensures distinct pockets of melted cheese throughout the baked crumb.