If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering bread recipe that combines the rich flavors of cheddar and sage with a delightful hint of beer, look no further! This Cheddar Sage Beer Bread is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also promises to elevate your baking game to new heights. Imagine pulling a warm, golden loaf from the oven, its crispy crust crackling as you slice into it, revealing a soft and cheesy interior. Perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or just slathered with butter, this bread will have your friends and family begging for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
- 1 bottle (12 oz) beer
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage of the interior surfaces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients together until thoroughly blended and no lumps remain.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh sage to the dry ingredient mixture. Gently fold the cheese and sage into the flour mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.
- Pour the entire bottle of beer into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy - do not overmix.
- Transfer the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Create a slight depression in the center to help the bread rise evenly.
- Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the top of the batter, which will help create a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn out the loaf onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the bread and serve. This bread is best enjoyed warm and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Beer: The flavor of your beer will significantly impact the taste of the bread. A light lager or a flavorful pale ale works best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite brews for a unique twist!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until they are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while a gentle hand will yield a light and airy texture.
- Add Extra Herbs: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the sage. This will create a more complex taste profile that pairs beautifully with the cheddar.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, your bread is ready!
- Enjoy Warm: This bread is best served warm straight from the oven. For an added treat, serve it with a side of softened butter or your favorite spread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
