Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a quick and easy bread to brighten up your meals, you’ve come to the right place! My Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is one of my favorite recipes. It’s bursting with the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and fresh herbs, making it a delightful addition to any table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this bread brings warmth and comfort that everyone loves.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to whip up. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hours in the kitchen. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and you’ll have a golden loaf that fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Trust me; this quick bread will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious bread baking in your oven without much fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy goodness and fragrant herbs in every bite.
• Versatile Side: Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a standalone snack with butter.
• Make Ahead: Bake it in advance, and enjoy it throughout the week for breakfast or snacks!
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of cheddar cheese and fresh herbs creates a flavor explosion that elevates any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to create our delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread!

Ingredients:
– 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 bread is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.

• Add Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in Veggies: Add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
• Herb Swaps: If you don’t have parsley, thyme, or rosemary, try basil or oregano for a unique twist!
• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the batter before baking.

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan so the bread comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute them evenly throughout the dough. This step is key for ensuring your bread has a consistent texture.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Herbs

Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, thyme, and rosemary. This is where all that wonderful flavor comes from! Make sure everything is well mixed so each slice of bread will be packed with cheesy herb goodness.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the whole milk, melted butter, and eggs. This mixture binds everything together and adds moisture to our quick bread. Whisking until well blended ensures no lumps remain.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy loaves.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure even baking. This little detail helps achieve that lovely dome shape we all love!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pop your loaf into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! When it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s done.

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Let your beautiful loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling time allows it to set properly; then you’ll be ready to slice into warm pieces of heaven!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a delightful adventure in your kitchen! Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs not only add vibrant flavor but also enhance the aroma of your bread. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs provide a more pronounced taste and brightness to the dish.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light, fluffy bread we’re aiming for.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at 45 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean; this ensures that your bread is cooked through without being overdone.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors and textures.

• Let It Cool: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy on the bottom.

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

This herbaceous quick bread is perfect as a standalone treat or paired with other dishes. Whether you’re having it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some additional chopped parsley or thyme on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the taste and add a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the bread perfectly.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: The richness of a creamy tomato soup pairs wonderfully with this bread. Dip slices into the soup for a comforting meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots offer a healthy and colorful side that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Herbed Butter: Serve with homemade herbed butter by mixing softened butter with herbs like chives or dill. This adds an extra layer of flavor that makes each bite even more enjoyable.

Enjoy your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread as part of any meal—its savory goodness will surely delight everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient choice for busy weeks. You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread before freezing for easier serving later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or wax paper.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
• For a quick reheat, pop them in a toaster or toaster oven until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Herb & Cheese Quick Bread:

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for unique flavors that suit your taste.

How long does Herb & Cheese Quick Bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, this delicious bread can last up to 3 days. If you freeze it, it will be good for about 3 months!

Can I add other herbs to my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Certainly! You can mix and match herbs like basil, chives, or dill based on what you have on hand. It’s a versatile recipe!

What can I serve with Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

This savory bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as part of a charcuterie board. It’s also delightful on its own with a bit of butter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a side; it’s a comforting addition to any meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!