If you have been on the lookout for the ultimate savory treat to jazz up your snack time or accompany your meals, this Cheesy Herb Quick Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture a warm, golden loaf bursting with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary and thyme, punctuated by sharp cheddar cheese melting into each fluffy bite. It’s irresistibly tender yet hearty, blending simple pantry staples into a flavorful bread that feels like a celebration of comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into homemade breads, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal fuss, proving that quick bread doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making an unforgettable loaf. Each element plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and color for the bread you’ll soon be devouring happily.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Acts as the sturdy base of the loaf, providing structure and softness.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Gives lift to your bread, ensuring it’s light and airy without heaviness.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors so the herbs and cheese really stand out.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory kick integral to the bread’s complexity.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Offers a mild sweetness and depth that complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary: Brings a fragrant, piney note that brightens every slice.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme: Adds earthiness and a hint of floral warmth essential for herbaceous balance.
- 1¼ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of gooey, cheesy goodness, creating irresistible texture and flavor contrast.
- 1 cup milk (any kind): Keeps the bread moist and tender; whole milk works best for richness.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, helping the bread hold together while adding a tender crumb.
- ¼ cup melted butter: Infuses buttery richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
- 2 tbsp honey (optional): Introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes perfectly if you decide to include it.
How to Make Cheesy Herb Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) so it’s hot and ready when your batter is mixed. Grease a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan thoroughly—this is essential to ensure your bread slides out easily and keeps its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly combined. This dry mix will form the backbone of your bread, and whisking it well guarantees even rise and seasoning in every slice.
Step 3: Add the Herbs and Cheese
Fold in the fresh rosemary and thyme, plus 1 cup of your shredded sharp cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining ¼ cup to sprinkle on top later. This step infuses your bread with vibrant herb aromas and that satisfying cheesy texture that sets this bread apart from ordinary quick breads.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and honey if you’re using it. The wet mixture blends richness and moisture that will produce a tender loaf with a beautiful crumb.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and gently stir just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix; a light hand here keeps the bread from becoming tough, ensuring it stays soft and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer your batter to the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top. Place in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the bread is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cheesy topping will crisp up delightfully while the inside remains tender.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This little cooldown lets the crumb set so your slices will be clean and hold together nicely, making every piece as delightful as the first.
How to Serve Cheesy Herb Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of finesse, consider brushing the crust with a bit of melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven. A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs over the top also adds both color and a fresh burst of flavor that really complements the cheddar’s richness.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups and stews, such as creamy tomato bisque or savory beef stew—the perfect way to soak up every last bit of delicious broth. It’s also fantastic alongside a fresh green salad to balance its richness and add crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thick and toast it for a crispy base to creamy avocado or a sharp cheese spread. Alternatively, cut it into cubes and use it as a flavorful crouton addition to salads or soups. This Cheesy Herb Quick Bread Recipe is truly versatile and invites you to experiment with presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it soft and moist so you can enjoy it just as fresh the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap it well in plastic and then foil to avoid freezer burn, and pop it in the freezer. The loaf freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, preserving that fresh-baked taste and texture.
Reheating
Thaw frozen bread overnight at room temperature, then reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back the crispy crust and melty cheese flavors as if it were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. So, instead of 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, go for about 1 teaspoon dried, and the same for thyme.
Is there a substitute for sharp cheddar cheese?
Absolutely! You can use other flavorful cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder taste. Just keep the quantity roughly the same to maintain the bread’s cheesy goodness.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that already contains xanthan gum for structure. Note that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What if I don’t have honey? Will the bread still taste good?
Honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors but it’s completely optional. You can leave it out without impacting the overall success of the bread, so feel free to skip it if you prefer.
Can I double the recipe to bake two loaves at once?
You sure can! Just be sure to divide the batter evenly between two greased loaf pans and bake them at the same temperature, increasing the baking time by a few minutes if needed. Keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick for doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Herb Quick Bread Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients combined thoughtfully can create something truly special. It’s an easy, flavorful bread perfect for any occasion—whether you’re elevating a weeknight dinner or bringing a tasty homemade gift to a friend. I genuinely hope you enjoy baking and sharing this bread as much as I do. Once you try it, it just might become your go-to comfort food staple!
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Cheesy Herb Quick Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is a flavorful and easy-to-make loaf, perfect for a savory snack or a side dish. Infused with fresh rosemary and thyme and packed with sharp cheddar cheese, it comes together quickly without the need for yeast or long rising times. Baked to a golden perfection, this bread offers a moist and tender crumb with a delicious cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Herbs & Cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1¼ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided: 1 cup in batter, ¼ cup for topping)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the bread after baking.
- Dry Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring the leavening and seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Add-ins: Stir in the chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the dry ingredients. Reserve ¼ cup of cheese for topping the loaf later.
- Wet Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, melted butter, and honey if using. This combination adds moisture, richness, and a touch of sweetness to the bread.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and tender.
- Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, evenly spread out, and sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the bread set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with a plant-based milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped or combined with dried herbs if fresh is unavailable; use about 1 teaspoon dried herbs.
- Honey is optional and can be omitted for a less sweet bread.
- Store leftover bread wrapped in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread texture.
