Cheesy Herb Quick Bread

Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is the perfect solution when you need a crowd-pleasing side without waiting hours for homemade bread to rise. This loaf mixes up in one bowl and brings those classic bakery aromas to your kitchen in just under an hour. It is ideal for last minute gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something fresh from the oven with minimal fuss.

I still remember the first time I made it to impress my in-laws with soup night and ended up fielding requests for the recipe before dinner was over. My kids now ask for it every weekend with scrambled eggs.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Gives structure and creates a tender crumb look for a fresh bag
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savoriness use regular white sugar
• Baking powder: Key for rise ensure your tin is fresh and lump free
• Baking soda: Adds a bit more lift check the date for effectiveness
• Salt: Brings out flavors choose sea salt if possible
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Offers tangy flavor and melty texture buy a block and grate for best results
• Garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory depth avoid old spices for best punch
• Fresh herbs like thyme chives or parsley: Add brightness pick vibrant leafy bunches
• Buttermilk: Gives moisture and subtle tang use whole buttermilk for richness
• Unsalted butter: Keeps the loaf moist and buttery melt just before stirring in
• Egg: Binds everything together and creates a fluffy crumb use large eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven temperature to 350°F or 175°C and prepare your loaf pan by greasing every corner to avoid sticking The even heating will give a golden crust

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In your largest mixing bowl thoroughly whisk together the flour sugar baking powder baking soda salt garlic powder and chopped herbs Do this for at least one full minute This blends the leaveners evenly and helps avoid clumps

Add the Cheese:

Scatter the shredded cheddar evenly into your dry mix Toss by hand to coat the cheese shreds with flour so they will not sink during baking This trick helps distribute cheesy goodness in every bite

Combine the Wet Ingredients:

In a separate medium bowl vigorously whisk your buttermilk melted unsalted butter and egg until you see a uniform pale yellow mixture Try to whisk out all egg streaks for the fluffiest bread

Mix and Pour:

Pour the wet mixture right over the dry ingredients Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently fold together Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour patches Slightly lumpy batter is ok Overmixing causes dense bread

Bake:

Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan smoothing the top with a spatula if uneven Bake on the center rack for at least 40 minutes but check at 43 minutes The top should be deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean A few moist crumbs are fine

Cool and Serve:

Let your bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to finish setting Carefully remove from the pan and place on a wire rack to cool further or slice while just barely warm Serve thick or thin with extra butter if you like

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The reason I love this quick bread is honestly because of how the sharp cheddar and chives taste together It always takes me back to weekend mornings baking with my mom and sneaking the first slice while it was still hot and gooey

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep best when wrapped tightly in plastic or a sealed reusable bag Store it at room temperature for two days or pop it in the fridge for up to a week For longer storage you can freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment then plastic Thaw at room temp or microwave for a few seconds to refresh

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack or a nice Gruyère for an elevated flavor twist If you do not have buttermilk a mix of whole milk with a dash of lemon juice works in a pinch Fresh rosemary or dill also fit in for the herbs Play with add ins like a sprinkle of chopped sun dried tomatoes or jalapeños for something extra

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy herb bread shines alongside creamy soups especially tomato or broccoli cheddar It is great toasted for breakfast with a soft egg or just a spread of butter For brunch cut thick slices and serve warm next to a leafy green salad Kids love it as an after school snack too

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A warm slice of cheesy quick bread is comfort made easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, but you can try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix for variation.

→ Which herbs work best?

Fresh thyme, chives, or parsley each complement the cheese well. Use your favorite, or a combination, for extra flavor.

→ Can I replace buttermilk?

If needed, substitute with plain yogurt thinned with a little milk or make a quick buttermilk from milk and lemon juice.

→ What's the best way to serve this bread?

Enjoy warm or at room temperature, plain or with a smear of butter. It pairs well with soups or salads.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Wrap and keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze individual slices.