This artisan no-knead cheddar bread is soft on the inside, crusty on the outside, and packed with cheesy flavor. With just a few ingredients and an overnight rest, this easy Dutch oven bread comes together with almost no effort and bakery-style results. Perfect for soups, sandwiches, or warm with butter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast.
Add the water and stir until a sticky dough forms.
Fold in the shredded cheddar until evenly mixed throughout the dough.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours.
When ready to bake, place an empty Dutch oven with its lid into your oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C).
Generously flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out and gently roll it in the flour to form a loose ball.
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven and place the dough inside. Cover with the lid.
Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on.
Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the loaf is golden brown and crusty.
Remove from the Dutch oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor.Do not over-handle the dough. It should stay soft and rustic.Let the loaf cool for at least 15 minutes so the inside finishes setting.This bread is amazing toasted with butter, soup, or eggs.StorageStore in a bread bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel for up to 2 days at room temperature.
Freeze slices for up to 2 months.