Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting bread recipe, look no further than this delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. It’s one of those recipes that brings warm memories of family gatherings and busy weeknights when you just want something delicious to accompany your meal. The blend of cheddar cheese with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary makes each bite a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether slathered with butter or enjoyed alongside a hearty soup, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! You can have this golden loaf baking in the oven in no time, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive celebrations. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Family-friendly: With its cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs, everyone will love it—kids and adults alike!
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, snack, or even breakfast; the possibilities are endless.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays fresh for days!
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of herbs and cheese creates an irresistible taste that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect fluffy texture and rich flavor. Here’s what you need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try out:

• Change up the cheese: Swap cheddar for another favorite cheese like gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.
• Add more herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or dill for a unique twist.
• Mix in veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or garlic powder if you’re craving some extra heat.

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Preheating ensures that the bread bakes evenly from the start, helping achieve that beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring your bread rises perfectly.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Herbs

Stir in the cheddar cheese, parsley, thyme, and rosemary until they are evenly distributed. This will help infuse every bite of bread with those wonderful flavors we love.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until well blended. Mixing these wet ingredients separately ensures everything comes together smoothly without any lumps.

Step 5: Mix Wet into Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep your bread light and fluffy!

Step 6: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. A smooth surface allows for even baking as well as an attractive presentation once baked.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing it to rest helps set its structure while keeping that soft interior intact.

Now you have your very own Herb & Cheese Quick Bread ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Making the perfect Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your loaf turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful aroma to your bread. Dried herbs can substitute in a pinch, but fresh will give you that vibrant taste and look.

• Grate cheese yourself: Grating cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese will give you better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your bread.

• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

• Check for doneness: Instead of relying solely on baking time, use a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is done!

• Let it cool: Allowing your bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its moisture while preventing sogginess at the bottom.

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Serving this delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here’s how you can make each slice even more inviting!

Garnishes

• Fresh herb sprigs: A simple sprig of parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and emphasizes the fresh ingredients used in the recipe.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over each slice enhances the bread’s savory notes and adds richness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A refreshing mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the cheesy richness of the bread.
• Vegetable soup: Pairing it with a warm, hearty vegetable soup creates comfort food perfection, especially on chilly days!
• Sautéed greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale tossed in garlic complements the flavors beautifully while adding nutritional value.
• Dipping oils: Serve with an assortment of dipping oils infused with herbs for an interactive appetizer that guests will love.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread will not only be scrumptious but also an attractive centerpiece at any gathering. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice to enjoy throughout the week. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for those busy days when you need a tasty snack or side dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week.
• To prevent drying out, consider wrapping the bread in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, allow the bread to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bread for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can slice individual pieces and microwave them for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread:

Can I use different types of cheese in this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even feta. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

How do I ensure my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread rises properly?

Make sure your baking powder is fresh and check its expiration date. Additionally, avoid overmixing your batter; mix just until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy.

What herbs work best in this recipe for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary are perfect for this quick bread. However, you can also try dill or chives for a different flavor profile!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Certainly! Use plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, and replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread! It’s not just a delightful addition to any meal but also a wonderful way to fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted later on, this bread is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!