Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Golden, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is your new go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy snack, this savory bread combines cheddar cheese with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Its delightful aroma and rich taste will make it a favorite at the table.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Dry Ingredients
• Flavorful Additions
• Wet Ingredients
• How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Cheddar and Herbs
• Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Mixtures
• Step 6: Prepare for Baking
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Cool Down
• How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
• With Soups
• As a Snack
• For Breakfast
• With Salads
• How to Perfect Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
• Reheating Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Herb & Cheese Quick Bread unique?
• Can I use other types of cheese?
• How do I know when my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is done baking?
• Can I add additional ingredients to this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This bread comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of cheddar and fresh herbs creates an irresistible flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm as a side dish, or enjoy it toasted with butter for breakfast.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual brunch, this bread fits right in.
• No Yeast Required: This quick bread relies on baking powder instead of yeast, making it easier to whip up.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking simpler and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for your quick bread, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a light batter by blending ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Golden bread bursting with cheddar and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Flavorful Additions

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

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. This ensures that your quick bread will bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.

Step 3: Add Cheddar and Herbs

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until they are well blended.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

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

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Herb & Cheese Quick Bread!

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Whether enjoyed as a side or a snack, it adds a delightful touch to any dining experience.

With Soups

• Creamy Tomato Soup – The cheesy goodness of the bread complements the acidity of the tomato soup perfectly.
• Minestrone – A hearty vegetable soup that pairs well with the savory flavors in the quick bread.

As a Snack

• With Butter – Spread a little butter on warm slices for a simple yet satisfying treat.
• Cheese Platter – Serve alongside assorted cheeses for an elegant appetizer option.

For Breakfast

• With Eggs – Enjoy it toasted with scrambled eggs for a fulfilling breakfast.
• Yogurt and Fruit – Serve as part of a balanced breakfast alongside yogurt and fresh fruit.

With Salads

• Caesar Salad – The herb flavors in the bread enhance the freshness of this classic salad.
• Greek Salad – Pairing this bread with olives and feta creates a Mediterranean feast.

How to Perfect Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

To achieve the best results with your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing just until combined ensures a light, fluffy texture in your bread.
• Check Doneness Early – Start checking for doneness at 45 minutes to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Completely – Allowing it to cool before slicing helps maintain its structure and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread can be paired wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the bread.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful side.
3. Grilled Chicken – Tender grilled chicken makes for a satisfying main dish alongside this quick bread.
4. Pasta Primavera – A veggie-packed pasta dish balances well with the savory notes of the bread.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers offer an exciting contrast in textures and flavors.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into soups when served with the quick bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Herb & Cheese Quick Bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the final product. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much or too little flour can affect the bread’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense bread. Mix until just combined for a light and airy texture.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the flavor of fresh ones. Always opt for fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary for the best taste.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect temperature can alter baking time and texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not cooling properly: Cutting into hot bread can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness.

Freezing Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped bread for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Herb & Cheese Quick Bread unique?

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is unique due to its blend of savory flavors from fresh herbs and cheddar cheese, making it perfect as a side dish or snack.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is done baking?

The bread is ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I add additional ingredients to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is not only flavorful but also versatile. It pairs perfectly with soups and salads or stands alone as a delightful snack. Feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses or herbs to make it truly your own!