Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is a savory, moist loaf bursting with sharp cheddar cheese and fragrant fresh herbs. This easy-to-make bread is perfect as a side for soups, salads, or as a flavorful snack. Its quick preparation and baking time make it an excellent choice for homemade bread without the wait.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quick bread combines the richness of cheddar with aromatic herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley to create a delicious, savory loaf. Unlike traditional bread, it uses baking powder and baking soda for a fast rise, making it ideal for busy days. The garlic powder adds subtle depth, enhancing the overall flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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all-purpose flour
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sugar
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baking powder
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baking soda
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salt
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shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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garlic powder
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chopped fresh herbs (thyme, chives, or parsley)
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buttermilk
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unsalted butter, melted
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egg
directions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and fresh herbs. -
Add Cheese:
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed. -
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, melted butter, and egg until well combined. -
Mix & Pour:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until moistened. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. -
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan 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 & Serve:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 8 to 10 slices.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 40 to 45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Calories: About 200 per slice
Variations
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Swap cheddar for other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
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Add chopped cooked bacon or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
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Use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available, adjusting quantity accordingly.
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Stir in a handful of chopped nuts or seeds for added texture.
storage/reheating
Store leftover bread wrapped in foil or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed. This bread also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.
How do I keep the bread moist?
Avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, pour batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes.
How should I store leftover bread?
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store at room temperature.
Can I omit the garlic powder?
Yes, but garlic adds a subtle savory depth.
Can I add other vegetables?
Finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini can be added with adjustments to moisture.
What fresh herbs work best?
Thyme, chives, parsley, or rosemary are great choices.
Is this bread suitable for sandwiches?
Yes, its firm texture and savory flavor make it an excellent sandwich bread alternative.
Can I use frozen herbs?
Yes, use half the amount when substituting frozen herbs for fresh.
Conclusion
Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is a flavorful, easy-to-make loaf that brings comforting warmth to any meal. With sharp cheddar, fragrant herbs, and a tender crumb, it’s perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or enjoying on its own. Quick to prepare and versatile, this bread is a must-have recipe in your baking repertoire.
[tasty-recipe id=”19181″]