If you’re looking for a delightful, savory treat that comes together quickly and boasts layers of flavor, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of fluffy texture, rich cheese, and vibrant herbs, making every bite a comforting yet exciting experience. Whether you’re serving it alongside a meal or enjoying it as a snack, this bread is an absolute crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a bread that’s tender, flavorful, and fragrant. Each ingredient plays a key role in building the bread’s structure, taste, and aroma, making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe both straightforward and special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet soft foundation needed for the bread’s structure.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise beautifully and stay light.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese and butter.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds just a hint of sweetness to lift the savory flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the mixture together and add richness to the bread.
- 1 cup milk: Moistens the batter, contributing to a tender crumb.
- ½ cup melted butter: Adds moisture and a wonderful buttery flavor for richness.
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or mix): The star component that gives gooeyness, sharpness, and depth.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives): Infuse the bread with fresh, aromatic notes that elevate the taste.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle kick of savoriness that complements the cheese and herbs perfectly.
How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a loaf pan to ensure your bread doesn’t stick during baking. This step might sound simple, but it’s essential for that perfect crust and easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and optional garlic powder. This combination not only ensures even distribution of the leavening agent but also lays down the flavor foundation your bread will build upon.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk and melted butter until smooth. This wet mixture adds moisture and richness, which will give your bread that tender crumb and buttery finish.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. The key here is to mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf.
Step 5: Fold in Cheese and Herbs
Now for the best part—fold in the shredded cheese and fresh herbs carefully. This step infuses the batter with bursts of cheesy goodness and herbal freshness, turning this simple bread into something truly special.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This timing ensures that your bread is cooked through yet wonderfully moist inside.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This resting time helps it set properly, making slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
This bread is fantastic on its own but can be elevated with a few thoughtful garnishes. A light spread of herb butter or a drizzle of honey can complement the savory notes wonderfully. Fresh thyme sprigs or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top before serving also add a lovely touch.
Side Dishes
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, and hearty stews. Try it alongside tomato basil soup for a cozy lunch or as a scrumptious accompaniment to a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a light dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bread and use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, roasted vegetables, or smoked salmon. You can also toast individual slices and sprinkle them with chili flakes for a spicy kick. This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, perfect for experimenting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will keep it moist and fresh while maintaining its delightful texture.
Freezing
To enjoy your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe later, slice it first and freeze the portions in a resealable freezer bag. This way, you can thaw individual slices as needed, preserving that homemade taste whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster or oven at a moderate temperature until warmed through. This will refresh the bread’s crisp crust and melt the cheese slightly, making it taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Mixing cheeses can also add exciting layers of taste.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives are fantastic choices because of their bright and aromatic qualities. You can also try rosemary or basil for a slightly different twist.
Is this bread gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or oil. Use a dairy-free cheese or omit it for a different but still tasty result.
How long does this bread keep fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, this bread stays fresh for about 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is the best option as it preserves flavor and texture well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about homemade bread, especially one as flavorful and easy to pull together as this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just trying something new, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a go, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every delicious slice!
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Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a savory, moist loaf packed with melted cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick snack or a flavorful side, this easy-to-make bread combines a tender crumb with rich cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs, baked to golden perfection in under an hour.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup melted butter
Add-ins
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or mix)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and garlic powder if using. This ensures the leavening agent and seasoning are evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk and melted butter, mixing until combined to create a smooth wet mixture.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped fresh herbs carefully, distributing them throughout the batter without overworking it.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the bread is golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy the bread warm or at room temperature as a snack or alongside your meal.
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Gruyère for a more complex flavor.
- Fresh herbs add brightness but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary—use about 1 tablespoon dried.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a tough bread texture.
- The bread can be stored wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
