Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time! Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a comforting homemade bread that bursts with flavor yet comes together quickly, you need to meet this gem: Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time! It’s a delightful combination of aromatic herbs and sharp cheeses in a tender, moist loaf that you can whip up fast. Perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings, this bread offers rich taste and satisfying texture without the fuss of traditional yeast breads. Once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for savory snacks and meals alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet carefully chosen to create a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each one plays a crucial role in making this bread both delicious and reliable—no complicated steps, just honest, delightful baking.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and a tender crumb to the bread.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Your quick bread’s secret lift to keep it light and fluffy without yeast.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors, tying everything together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings earthy, slightly minty herbiness that’s classic and comforting.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a delicate, lemony-green note for brightness.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a rich tangy punch.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Intensifies the cheese flavor with a nutty sharpness.
• 1 cup milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender while helping bind ingredients.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Adds tenderness and moistness for that perfect quick bread texture.
• 2 large eggs: Give the bread structure and richness vital for a satisfying bite.
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional): Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal zing.

How to Make Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time!

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pan Ready

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a perfectly warm environment for even baking. While it heats, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean removal a breeze.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme. This step ensures the herbs and leavening are evenly distributed so every slice gets that consistent flavor and perfect rise.

Step 3: Add Cheeses

Stir in your shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan. Mixing them evenly into your dry ingredients helps the cheese stay suspended throughout the batter, so you get melty, cheesy bites in every forkful.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk them together until completely smooth. This mixture will bring moisture and richness that balance the crumb and flavor beautifully.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Gently fold them together until just combined—remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to a tough bread, so keep it light.

Step 6: Add Fresh Parsley (Optional)

If you’re using fresh parsley, now’s the time to fold it in gently. It adds a lovely dash of green and a refreshing herbal brightness that elevates the bread’s overall appeal.

Step 7: Prepare to Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly, helping it bake beautifully and look inviting.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Place your pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a perfectly cooked loaf.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Let the bread cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier and neater.

How to Serve Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time!

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil can take this quick bread from great to gorgeous. Adding a bit of flaky sea salt on top right after baking also amps up the flavor and adds a subtle crunch you’ll love.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with soups like tomato basil or butternut squash. It’s also fantastic alongside a simple green salad or a bowl of chili, perfect for soaking up those delicious sauces.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn slices of this bread into mini crostinis topped with creamy goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, or transform it into a savory breakfast strata by cubing and combining it with eggs and veggies. The possibilities for Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time! are endless and exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or sealed in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to two days, making them ready for a quick snack or meal addition.

Freezing

If you want to save your bread longer, freezing is the perfect solution. Wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, it should last up to three months, waiting for you on busy days.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked taste, warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes or toast them lightly. Microwave reheating works too but may soften the crust slightly. Either way, your Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time! will be just as delightful.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar and Parmesan?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan provide a wonderful flavor combo, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for gooeyness, feta for tang, or gouda for smokiness. Just keep the total cheese quantity the same for best results.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for quick breads. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add a bit yourself to help with texture and rise.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Try rosemary, basil, or chives for different flavor profiles. Smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can also add a lovely warmth if you like a bit of spice.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best way is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. The top should look golden and feel firm to the touch.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

You absolutely can! Just make sure to use a larger loaf pan or divide the batter between two pans. Baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the bread and check for doneness a few minutes earlier than usual.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a flavorful, reliable, and quick bread to keep in your baking repertoire, you really must try Herb and Cheese Quick Bread: Bake It in No Time! Its combination of herbs, cheeses, and simple ingredients comes together so effortlessly, yet delivers a loaf that feels homemade and special. I promise, once you bring this bread to your table, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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