Savory Cheddar Chive Bread (Printable Version)
Rustic loaf with sharp cheddar and fresh chives, tender crumb and golden crust, ideal warm accompaniment.
# What You Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tsp baking soda
03 - 1 tsp fine sea salt
04 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Cheese & Herbs
05 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely grated
06 - 1/3 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
→ Wet Ingredients
07 - 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, plus extra as needed
08 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Stir in the grated cheddar and chopped chives until evenly distributed.
04 - Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add another tablespoon or two of buttermilk.
05 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead just until it comes together—do not overwork. Shape into a round loaf, about 7 inches in diameter.
06 - Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. With a sharp knife, cut a deep X across the top.
07 - Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until deeply golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
08 - Let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The tangy buttermilk and sharp cheddar create an incredible depth of flavor that tastes like it took all day
- You probably have everything in your kitchen right now, making it perfect for unexpected guests
02 -
- Overworking the dough makes it tough, so handle it gently and stop as soon as it comes together
- The X on top is not just for looks. It allows heat to penetrate the center and helps the loaf bake evenly
03 -
- Grate your cheese from a block for the best melt and distribution throughout the bread
- If the bottom is browning too quickly, slide a baking sheet onto the rack below to shield it