Apple Cheddar Rosemary Beer Bread: A Savory Delight

This Apple Cheddar Rosemary Beer Bread recipe is a delightful twist on classic beer bread. The subtle sweetness of apples complements the sharp cheddar and fragrant rosemary, all enhanced by the rich flavor of beer. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no kneading or rising time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous weekend baking session. This bread is fantastic on its own, toasted with butter, or served alongside soups, stews, or a cheese board. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

* **Simplicity:** This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients. It’s a dump-and-stir kind of bread, perfect for beginner bakers.
* **Flavor Combination:** The sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and earthy rosemary create a unique and complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
* **Texture:** The beer contributes to a moist and slightly dense crumb, while the cheddar adds a cheesy, melty texture.
* **Versatility:** This bread is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a snack, a side dish, or even as a base for sandwiches or crostini.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **3 cups all-purpose flour:** Provides the structure for the bread. You can also use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.
* **1 tablespoon baking powder:** The leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
* **1 teaspoon salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **1/4 teaspoon baking soda:** Helps with browning and adds a subtle tang.
* **1/4 cup granulated sugar:** Balances the savory flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
* **1 (12-ounce) bottle of beer:** Adds flavor and moisture to the bread. Use a beer you enjoy drinking, but avoid overly hoppy beers, as they can make the bread bitter. Amber ales, lagers, or even stouts work well.
* **1/4 cup melted butter:** Adds richness and flavor. You can use unsalted or salted butter, adjusting the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.
* **1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese:** Provides a cheesy flavor and texture. Use a good-quality sharp cheddar for the best results.
* **1 cup chopped apple:** Adds sweetness and moisture. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well. Peel the apples before chopping.
* **2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary:** Adds a fragrant and earthy flavor. You can use dried rosemary if fresh isn’t available, but use only 1 tablespoon, as dried herbs are more potent.

Equipment

* **9×5 inch loaf pan:** The standard size for loaf breads.
* **Mixing bowl:** To combine the ingredients.
* **Whisk:** To combine the dry ingredients.
* **Rubber spatula:** To fold in the wet ingredients and cheese/apple.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Wire rack:** To cool the bread.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and sugar until well combined. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour the beer and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread. A few lumps are okay.

Step 4: Fold in the Cheese, Apple, and Rosemary

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped apple, and fresh rosemary until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Make sure not to overmix at this stage either.

Step 5: Pour into the Prepared Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. The batter will be quite thick.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the bread should be golden brown.

Step 7: Cool

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once the bread is completely cool, slice it with a serrated knife and serve. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations

* **Beer Choice:** Experiment with different types of beer to find your favorite flavor combination. Darker beers like stouts will give the bread a richer, more intense flavor, while lighter beers like lagers will result in a more subtle flavor.
* **Cheese:** Use different types of cheese to customize the flavor. Gruyere, Swiss, or Gouda would all be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
* **Apples:** Try using different varieties of apples, such as Gala or Braeburn, to add different nuances of sweetness and tartness.
* **Herbs:** Substitute the rosemary with other herbs, such as thyme, sage, or chives.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a warm, spiced flavor.
* **Gluten-Free:** To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your beer is gluten-free.
* **Make it a meal:** Add cooked bacon or ham for a heartier, more substantial bread.
* **Sweet & Savory:** Drizzle with honey after baking for a sweet and savory flavor explosion.

Serving Suggestions

* **Serve warm with butter or olive oil.**
* **Toast and top with avocado and a fried egg for a delicious breakfast.**
* **Serve alongside soups, stews, or chili.**
* **Use it to make grilled cheese sandwiches.**
* **Serve with a cheese board or charcuterie platter.**
* **Make crostini or bruschetta with it.**
* **Enjoy it as a snack with a glass of beer or wine.**

Storage Instructions

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the bread at room temperature before slicing and serving.

Troubleshooting

* **Bread is too dry:** Make sure you are using the correct amount of beer. You may also need to reduce the baking time slightly.
* **Bread is too dense:** Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread.
* **Bread is not rising:** Make sure your baking powder is fresh. Also, ensure that your oven is properly preheated.
* **Bread is browning too quickly:** Tent the loaf pan with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to prevent the top from burning.

Recipe Card

**Apple Cheddar Rosemary Beer Bread**

A savory and delicious bread that combines the sweetness of apples, the sharpness of cheddar, and the fragrance of rosemary, all enhanced by the flavor of beer. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 50-60 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 5 minutes
**Yield:** 1 loaf

### Ingredients:

* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 (12-ounce) bottle of beer
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* 1 cup chopped apple (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary

### Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and sugar.
3. Pour in the beer and melted butter. Stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the cheddar cheese, apple, and rosemary.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Slice and serve.

### Notes:

* Experiment with different types of beer, cheese, and apples to customize the flavor.
* Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cheddar Rosemary Beer Bread!