New England Cranberry Cheddar Sourdough
New England Cranberry Cheddar Sourdough
A rustic bread infused with the tangy flavors of New England, made with a blend of cranberries, sharp cheddar, and a hint of rosemary.
š Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
- 1 tablespoon butter
šØāš³ Instructions
- 1
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
- 2
Step 2: Add sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3
Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 4
Step 4: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- 5
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 6
Step 6: Mix sharp cheddar cheese, cranberries, and fresh rosemary leaves in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.
- 7
Step 7: Fold the dough in half and use a sharp knife to create a decorative edge.
- 8
Step 8: Transfer the bread to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it's golden brown.
- 9
Step 9: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- 10
Step 10: Brush the bread with melted butter and serve warm.
š” Pro Tips
To avoid overmixing, mix the dough just until the ingredients come together. For an authentic New England flavor, use a combination of white and whole wheat flours. For a more robust rosemary flavor, increase the amount to 3 tablespoons.