Beer Bread

The beer pulls double-duty here, serving both as a boost to the leaveners and the flavor of the bread. Beer bread can be a delicious accompaniment to any hearty soup, makes for a killer lunch or dinner sandwich, and is delicious enough to stand on its own with a simple slather of butter.

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 3 c. all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1 tbsp. Kosher salt
• 1/4 c. granulated sugar
• 12 oz. beer
• 1/2 c. unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 1 c. cheddar, shredded (optional
• Caramelized onions, bacon bits, sliced jalapeños  (optional

Directions

1. Adjust an oven rack to center position, and preheat the oven to 375°. Spray a standard loaf pan with cooking spray.
2. Step 2In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the beer along with ¼ cup of the melted butter. Stir to combine, and then fold in the shredded cheese or any other optional mix-ins.
3. Step 3Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, and smooth the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Pour the remaining ¼ cup of the melted butter on top.
4. Step 4Bake the bread for 1 hour, or until golden brown, and a toothpick when inserted in the middle of the loaf comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes, then invert it onto a cutting board. When the bread is cool, slice and serve. Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Slices can be frozen and toasted to refresh.