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Crispy Jalapeño Cheddar Pull-Apart Bread

jalapeño cheddar pull-apart bread - featured image

This cheesy, spicy pull-apart bread is loaded with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and fresh jalapeños for a crowd-pleasing snack or side. With a crispy crust and gooey interior, it’s perfect for parties, game nights, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 23 medium jalapeños, deseeded and finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1/2 cup extra cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
  • Jalapeño rings (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add flour, salt, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or use a stand mixer for 5 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
  3. Cover the bowl with a towel and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes, until doubled.
  4. Mix sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, diced jalapeños, scallions, and garlic powder in a bowl. Set aside.
  5. On a floured surface, roll out dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Brush with melted butter. Sprinkle filling evenly over the dough, pressing lightly.
  6. Slice dough into 5 strips lengthwise. Stack strips, then cut into squares about 2 inches wide. Stack squares upright in a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  7. Top with extra cheddar and decorate with jalapeño rings if desired.
  8. Cover loaf pan loosely and let rise for 20 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and cheese is bubbling. If top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  10. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then loosen edges and lift out. Serve warm, pulling apart pieces.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh jalapeños and shred your own cheese. Don’t overstuff the pan; leave space for dough expansion. Brush extra melted butter on top after baking for a glossy, crispy finish. Bread can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with substitutions. Serve warm for optimal gooeyness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheddar, jalapeño, pull-apart bread, cheese bread, party bread, appetizer, snack, comfort food, easy bread recipe