baking

Smoked Paprika & Cheddar Beer Bread (Cast Iron Magic)

Pam 2026
Smoked Paprika & Cheddar Beer Bread (Cast Iron Magic)

Ingredients

Ingredients

Makes one 8-inch loaf (serves 6-8).

  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
  • 1 bottle (12oz) beer (lager or ale works great)
  • ¼ cup (½ stick) butter, melted

Beer bread is a lazy genius’s best friend. No yeast. No kneading. No rising. You mix, you pour, you bake. This version gets a smoky kick from paprika and a crispy, buttery crust from your cast iron skillet.

Ready in under an hour. Dangerous knowledge? Yes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Prep

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease an 8-inch cast iron skillet generously.
2

Mix

  • In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and smoked paprika.
  • Stir in 1½ cups of cheddar.
  • Pour in beer. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix—lumpy is fine).
3

Assemble

  • Scrape dough into skillet. Spread evenly.
  • Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar.
  • Pour melted butter over the top.
4

Bake

  • Bake 35-40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool 10 minutes in skillet. Then slice and devour.

Summary

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Yield: 1 cast iron loaf

Difficulty: Stupid Easy (seriously)

Storage Notes

How to Store:

  • Room temp: Wrap in foil and keep 2 days.
  • Fridge: Store up to 5 days (but best fresh).
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.

Reheat:

Toast slices or warm in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. The cast iron can go right back in.

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