Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful way to fill your kitchen with warmth and mouthwatering aromas, then this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is just the ticket! This recipe has become a family favorite in our home, perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Imagine golden loaves bursting with sharp cheddar and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Each bite is a little slice of heaven!

What makes this bread extra special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for brunch or as a comforting side for soups and salads. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have fresh bread ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness! It’s a great way to sneak in some herbs too.
• Versatile: Perfect as a snack, alongside meals, or even toasted with butter for breakfast!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheese and fresh herbs creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread not only easy but also delicious! Gather these items from your pantry and refrigerator for a delightful baking experience:

• 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

The beauty of this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or to use what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Cheese: Boost the cheesy flavor by mixing in some crumbled feta or mozzarella.
• Mix Up the Herbs: Try using basil or dill for a different herby twist that brightens up the flavor.
• Incorporate Veggies: Add some chopped spinach or finely diced bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Experiment with Spices: A pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can add an exciting kick!

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This ensures that your bread won’t stick once it’s baked and gives it that lovely golden crust we all adore.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step combines all the dry elements evenly so that every bite of your bread will be perfectly seasoned.

Step 3: Add Cheddar and Herbs

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary until they are evenly distributed. The scent of these herbs will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until well blended. These wet ingredients will bring moisture to our bread, making it soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Mix Wet into Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and airy.

Step 6: Pour Into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. This helps ensure even baking throughout.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful golden top! A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool properly helps maintain its structure when sliced.

Now you’ve made your very own Herb & Cheese Quick Bread! Enjoy it warm with butter or as part of any meal – I promise you’ll be back for more!

Pro Tips for Making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Baking this delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary provide vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. Plus, they add beautiful specks of color throughout the bread.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing the batter just until the ingredients are combined ensures a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid for that light and airy bread.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature; start checking your bread around the 45-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating it’s cooked through.

• Let it cool: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its shape and texture. Cooling completely will make slicing easier without crumbling.

• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to swap out cheddar for other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella. Each choice will impart a unique flavor profile, making your quick bread versatile and exciting!

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Serving your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is as enjoyable as baking it! This golden loaf pairs beautifully with various garnishes and side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or thyme on top just before serving for a fresh touch.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors of the herbs.
• Grated cheese: A little extra shredded cheese on top right before baking creates a cheesy crust that’s irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the savory flavors of the bread.
• Vegetable Soup: Pairing this bread with a warm vegetable soup makes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness and complement the herbaceous notes in your bread.
• Hummus or Dip: Serve alongside a bowl of hummus or your favorite dip for an appetizer-style experience that’s sure to please guests.

Enjoy your delicious Herb & Cheese Quick Bread at breakfast, lunch, or dinner—it’s bound to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and maintain its freshness:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storage.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date for reference.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm it in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Herb & Cheese Quick Bread.

Can I use different types of cheese in Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Just ensure they melt well to maintain that cheesy goodness.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

You can add additional herbs or spices according to your preference. Garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful twist!

Is Herb & Cheese Quick Bread suitable for special diets?

Yes! This bread is versatile and can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

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

Your bread is ready when it’s golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread! Its delightful combination of cheddar and fresh herbs makes it truly special, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or snacking on it throughout the day, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!