Spicy Cheddar Chipotle Bread on a Pizza Stone

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Cheddar Chipotle Bread on a Pizza Stone.

1. Step 1

   Start by sprinkling the active dry yeast over 3 cups of warm water in a small bowl. Stir in the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast softens and forms a creamy foam. This is the magic moment when your yeast comes to life!

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour with the salt. Once mixed, stir in the yeast mixture to create a soft dough. Allow this dough to rest for 15 minutes so the flour can absorb the liquid and become more pliable.

3. Step 3

   Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too stiff to mix by hand, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead in the extra flour until it reaches the right consistency. Let the dough rest for another 15 minutes to relax.

4. Step 4

   While the dough is resting, prepare the chipotle peppers. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can seed the chiles. Puree the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce until smooth. Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and set aside.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to bring the flavors together! Knead the chipotle puree, cubed cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese into the dough until everything is fully incorporated. This will create a deliciously cheesy and spicy bread!

6. Step 6

   Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover it with a light cloth and let it rise in a warm place (ideally between 80 to 95 degrees F) until it doubles in size, which should take about 40 minutes. Punch the dough down gently and knead it a few times before covering it again and letting it rise for another 30 minutes.

7. Step 7

   While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450 degrees F and place a pizza stone on the middle rack. Dust a pizza peel or the back of a baking tray with cornmeal to prevent sticking.

8. Step 8

   Once the dough has risen, use a serrated knife to divide it into four equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round ball and place them on the cornmeal-dusted peel. Cover the balls with a damp cloth and let them rise for an additional 10 to 20 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Carefully slide the loaves off the peel onto the hot pizza stone in the oven. Bake for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!