Beer Cheese Bread

Beer Cheese Bread is a wonderfully easy, quick bread that requires no yeast and no kneading. It’s dense, moist, savory, and absolutely delicious served warm with soup, chili, or stew.

Here is a classic, highly-rated recipe.

Easy Beer Cheese Bread

This bread is famously simple to make. The beer provides yeast for leavening and a unique, malty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or less, to taste)

• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, but recommended)

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (set aside 1/2 cup for topping)

• 1 (12 oz) bottle or can of beer, at room temperature (a lager or ale works well)

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, divided

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and minced garlic (if using).

3. Add Cheese and Beer: Stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Make a well in the center and pour in the beer and 4 tablespoons (½ stick) of the melted butter. Gently stir with a wooden spoon just until combined. Do not overmix; the batter will be thick and lumpy.

4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly to the corners. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese. Pour the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the cheese topping.

5. Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows it to set and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm.

Chef’s Tips & Variations:

• The Beer Matters: The flavor of the bread will change with the beer you use.

  • A standard lager or pilsner (like Budweiser, Coors Banquet, Heineken) will give a classic, mild flavor.

  • An amber ale or IPA will add more pronounced hoppy and malty notes.

  • A dark stout or porter (like Guinness) will create a deeper, richer, almost chocolatey flavor.

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will develop the gluten and make the bread tough. Stir until the flour is just incorporated.

• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is great. Smoked Gouda or Pepper Jack would also be delicious.

• Add-Ins: For extra flavor, consider adding:

  • 2-3 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, dill)

  • 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika or garlic powder

  • 4-5 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon

• Storage: Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the toaster or oven.