Buttery focaccia dough twisted with sharp cheddar and spicy jalapeños creates these irresistible pull-apart bread twists - perfect for parties or as a bold side dish.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 500g bread flour
- 7g instant yeast
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 350ml warm water
- 60ml extra virgin olive oil
- 200g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt for topping
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g bread flour, 7g instant yeast, 2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp granulated sugar. Make a well in the center and add 350ml warm water and 60ml extra virgin olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
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Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
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Meanwhile, combine 200g sharp cheddar cheese, 3 medium jalapeños, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika in a bowl. Set aside.
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Once risen, punch down dough and roll out on a floured surface into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Sprinkle the cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly over half the dough lengthwise.
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Fold the dough over to cover the filling, then gently roll to seal. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal strips.
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Working with one strip at a time, gently stretch and twist each strip 2-3 times, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
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Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
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Brush twists with 3 tbsp unsalted butter and sprinkle with 1 tsp coarse sea salt for topping. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
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Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with 2 tbsp fresh chives. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Jalapeño Heat Level: Remove seeds and membranes for milder heat, or leave them in for extra spice. Taste-test your jalapeños as heat levels vary.
Cheese Choice: Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor contrast, but pepper jack or Monterey Jack work well too for different flavor profiles.
Twisting Technique: Don't over-stretch the dough when twisting - gentle tension prevents tearing while creating attractive spirals.
Rising Environment: Create a warm rising environment by placing the bowl in an oven with just the light on, or near a sunny window.
Serving Ideas: Perfect alongside chili, soups, or as a party appetizer. Also excellent with a beer or spicy margarita.
Storage: Best served the day they're made, but can be stored covered for 2 days. Reheat in a 150°C (300°F) oven for 5 minutes to refresh.