Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious addition to your meal, let me introduce you to my favorite Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. This golden loaf is filled with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Every bite is a warm hug for your taste buds! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this bread is sure to make everyone smile and feel right at home.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You can serve it warm straight out of the oven or enjoy it as leftovers the next day—if there are any left! It’s perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or just enjoying on its own with a bit of butter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those nights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about the cheesy goodness and fragrant herbs in every slice!
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even breakfast. It fits into any meal effortlessly.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this bread ahead of time and pop it in the oven whenever you’re ready to enjoy it.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of savory cheese and fresh herbs creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful loaf!

For the Bread

• 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

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is wonderfully flexible! You can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Change up the cheese: Swap out cheddar for another cheese like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
• Add more herbs: Mix in some fresh basil or chives if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Spice it up: Incorporate some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensures that your bread bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, you can get all your ingredients prepped!

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan so that your bread releases easily after baking. This step is crucial; nobody likes bread sticking to the pan!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute everything evenly throughout your bread.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Herbs

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with parsley, thyme, and rosemary until they are well mixed. The herbs will add an amazing flavor that permeates every slice.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until well blended. This mixture adds moisture to the bread while helping bind everything together beautifully.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy!

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top. The smell while it’s baking will make you wish you could fast forward!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling allows it to set properly so that every slice holds its shape perfectly.

And there you have it! A warm loaf of Herb & Cheese Quick Bread that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Enjoy every savory bite!

Pro Tips for Making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Making your own Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be on your way to baking perfection!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary provide vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. They also add a lovely aroma to your bread while it bakes.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your bread tender and fluffy. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a denser texture.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s wise to use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. This guarantees even baking and prevents your bread from being undercooked or overbaked.

• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its unique taste and texture.

• Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing helps maintain its structure. This way, you’ll avoid a crumbly mess when serving!

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Presenting your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread can elevate the dining experience! Here are some fun ideas:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a bit of extra chopped parsley or thyme on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds richness, making each bite more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the bread while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Vegetable Soup: Pairing this bread with a warm bowl of vegetable soup creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots bring out the earthiness of the herbs in the bread and add nutritional value.
• Herbed Butter: Serve with whipped herbed butter for an extra layer of flavor. Just blend softened butter with garlic and additional fresh herbs for a delicious spread.

Enjoy this delightful dish as part of any meal or as a snack; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious homemade bread throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and unwrap them.
• Place slices on a baking sheet.
• Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious bread!

Can I make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread without fresh herbs?

Absolutely! While fresh herbs enhance the flavor, you can use dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third of the amount.

How do I ensure my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread rises properly?

To help your bread rise, make sure your baking powder is fresh. Also, mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to denser bread. Enjoy watching it rise beautifully in the oven!

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

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, or even add vegetables like chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Is Herb & Cheese Quick Bread suitable for serving with soups?

Yes! This savory bread pairs wonderfully with soups and salads, making it a perfect addition to your meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm hug from your kitchen that fills your home with incredible aromas. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or enjoying a slice as a snack, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!