If you’re craving a warm, savory bread that effortlessly combines the richness of sharp cheddar with the fresh aroma of herbs, this Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. It delivers a perfect balance of cheesy comfort and herby brightness, baked into a moist, tender loaf that’s ready in just about an hour. Whether you’re serving it alongside a cozy bowl of soup or enjoying it on its own, this quick bread is an inviting addition to any meal or snack time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is straightforward, and each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and look of this bread. From the all-purpose flour that forms the base to the sharp cheddar cheese adding boldness, every component is simple but essential.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives the bread structure without heaviness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the bread rises beautifully for that delightful fluffiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and adds depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warm kick to complement the herbs.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle savory notes that pair perfectly with cheese.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or thyme, basil, oregano mix): The heart of the herbaceous flavor that makes this bread special.
- 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that rich, melty, bold taste we all love.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds an extra layer of nutty, salty complexity.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions: Delivers a fresh, mild oniony brightness throughout.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1/3 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Adds richness and a slight tang for balance.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together making the texture light and cohesive.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings a buttery richness that highlights the cheese’s flavor.
How to Make Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare your 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial to ensure your bread doesn’t stick and has a nice, clean crust when it comes out.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs. This combination of dry ingredients lays down the precise foundation of flavors and ensures that your bread rises just right.
Step 3: Add Cheeses and Herbs
Stir in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and chopped chives until they are evenly distributed throughout the dry mixture. This step spreads the cheesy, herbaceous goodness evenly so every bite is filled with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream or Greek yogurt, egg, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and uniform. These wet ingredients bring moisture, richness, and structure to your bread batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender and light—overmixing can make it tough.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. This rest time helps the bread set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up each slice, try sprinkling some fresh chopped chives or a bit of extra grated Parmesan on top right after slicing. A light brushing of softened butter while the bread is still warm takes it to that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth level.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a hearty vegetable soup, a crisp green salad, or even a bowl of chili. The cheesy-herb flavor complements a variety of dishes, making it a flexible choice whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or an afternoon snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thickly and serve it as mini sandwiches with roasted turkey and arugula or use it as a base for a savory cheese toast topped with tomato slices and a drizzle of olive oil. The Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is sturdy yet tender enough to support all kinds of delicious creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping it covered prevents it from drying out while preserving freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This quick bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well in foil and place it inside a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread can be kept for up to three months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the crust slightly crisp and the interior moist and soft.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a cheese blend to suit your taste preferences. Each cheese brings a unique flavor and texture.
Is this bread gluten-free?
This specific recipe uses all-purpose wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking with a similar rising agent, but the texture might vary slightly.
Can I add extras like bacon or sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, adding cooked bacon bits or chopped sun-dried tomatoes would give your bread an extra burst of flavor and texture. Just fold them into the dry ingredients before adding wet ingredients for even distribution.
How long does the bread stay fresh once baked?
When stored properly at room temperature, the bread stays fresh for about two days. Beyond that, it’s best to freeze to maintain the best flavor and texture.
What is the best way to slice this bread without it crumbling?
Use a serrated bread knife and slice when the bread has cooled slightly but is still warm. Letting it cool on a wire rack helps firm it up and reduces crumbling during slicing.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of freshly baked bread loaded with herbs and cheese, especially when it comes together so quickly and easily. This Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is a total winner for busy cooks who want flavor-packed results without fuss. It’s versatile, forgiving, and absolutely delicious—give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a cherished staple in your kitchen!
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Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Herb Cheese Quick Bread is a savory, easy-to-make loaf filled with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly moist and flavorful, this bread combines classic herbs with tangy cheeses and a tender crumb, making it ideal to pair with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, basil, and oregano)
- 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh chives, ensuring even distribution.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), large egg, and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fill and Bake: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- This bread is best served warm and pairs wonderfully with soups or fresh salads.
- Cheddar can be substituted with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
- Optional additions include cooked bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes to add more texture and flavor.
