Easy Herb & Cheese Quick Bread to Savor

If you’re craving something warm, savory, and incredibly satisfying, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is exactly what you need. It blends fragrant herbs with rich, melty cheese to create a moist, flavorful bread that’s effortless to make and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re pairing it with soup, serving it alongside a salad, or enjoying it as a snack, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread delivers on taste and comfort every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready from start to finish in under an hour, perfect for busy days or last-minute plans.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs and cheese keeps every bite tender and delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, toasted with butter, or alongside your favorite meals.
• Customizable: Easily swap out herbs or cheese to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Great for All Skill Levels: Simple steps that even beginners can follow without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread are straightforward yet essential, each bringing a vital element to the texture, flavor, and appearance of the final loaf. Using fresh herbs and quality cheese really makes a difference in the depth of taste.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Key for the bread’s rise and fluffiness.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the bread.
• Fresh herbs: Choose a mix like parsley, rosemary, or thyme for bright, aromatic notes.
• Grated cheese: Sharp cheddar or a sharp white cheese gives a rich, savory punch.
• Milk: Keeps the bread moist and soft.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds tenderness and richness.
• Optional garlic powder: For an extra layer of savory flavor.

Variations for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe is wonderfully adaptable. You can mix and match ingredients to cater to your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand—making it a go-to recipe with endless possibilities.

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Different Cheeses: Try feta, parmesan, or gouda to change the flavor profile.
• Adding Seeds or Nuts: Toss in sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for crunch.
• Herb Variations: Swap fresh herbs for dried if needed, adjusting amounts accordingly.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven and greasing a loaf pan. Chop your fresh herbs finely and grate your cheese if it’s not pre-grated. This prep helps everything come together smoothly when mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and optional garlic powder. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents so your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread rises perfectly.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg with milk and oil or melted butter until well mixed. This wet mixture will add moisture and richness to your bread.

Step 4: Incorporate Herbs and Cheese

Add the chopped herbs and grated cheese to the dry ingredients, mixing them through before pouring in the wet ingredients—this keeps the herbs and cheese evenly spread throughout the bread.

Step 5: Mix the Batter Gently

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so stop when no large streaks of flour remain.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, let the bread cool on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes to finish setting and make slicing easier.

Pro Tips for Making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• Use Fresh Herbs: For the brightest flavor and aroma, use fresh herbs rather than dried whenever possible.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir just enough to combine ingredients to keep the bread light and tender.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Using good-quality cheese makes a noticeable difference in flavor depth.
• Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check doneness a few minutes before the recipe suggests.
• Optional Add-Ins: Incorporate a handful of diced sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor twists.

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Garnishes

Serving the bread with a pat of compound butter mixed with herbs or a drizzle of olive oil enhances its natural flavors and adds an inviting shine to the slices.

Side Dishes

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread pairs beautifully with fresh salads, creamy soups, or even a hearty stew—making it a versatile side dish that elevates any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bread into thick slices for a rustic toast topped with avocado or roasted vegetables, or slice it into small cubes and serve as part of a savory bread pudding.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve moisture and flavor.

Freezing

Wrap the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It keeps well in the freezer for up to three months without losing its delicious texture.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore warmth and crispness without drying out the bread.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs; just use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

What types of cheese work best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but Parmesan, feta, or Gouda also work beautifully for different flavor variations.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely. This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread contains no meat, making it a great vegetarian option for snacks or meals.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Yes, substitute milk with a plant-based milk and use a dairy-free cheese to keep it dairy-free while retaining flavor.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, the bread stays fresh for about two days, though it’s best enjoyed soon after baking for maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. It’s a simple recipe bursting with flavor and perfect to enjoy any time—whether as a comforting side or a satisfying snack. Try it for yourself and get ready to fall in love with this easy, tasty bread that feels like a warm hug every time you take a bite.

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