Savory Cheddar Chive Bread (Printable Format)
Hearty loaf with sharp cheddar and fresh chives, tender crumb, and a golden crust for cozy meals.
# 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 Steps:
01 - Preheat 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 until well blended.
03 - Stir in the grated cheddar and chopped chives until evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
04 - Create a well in the center of the mixture. Pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix with a wooden spoon or hands until a shaggy dough forms. Add additional buttermilk 1 tablespoon at a time if too dry.
05 - Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead just until it comes together, avoiding overworking. Shape into a round loaf approximately 7 inches in diameter.
06 - Transfer loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep X across the top of the loaf.
07 - Bake for 30-35 minutes until deeply golden and the loaf produces a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.
08 - Allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The magic happens in under an hour from start to warm, cheesy finish
- That tender crumb sandwiching pockets of melted cheddar feels like a hug
02 -
- Overworking the dough makes it tough, handle it gently and briefly
- The X cut is not just tradition, it helps the heat penetrate the center
03 -
- Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly and prevent pockets of flour
- If the crust browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes