Discover the Joy of Baking Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Today!

Quick breads are the unsung heroes of the baking world – simple to prepare, yet bursting with flavor and texture. And when you combine the aromatic allure of fresh herbs with the irresistible melty goodness of cheese, you’ve got a winning recipe for the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. This easy-to-make loaf is the perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, and spreads, or simply enjoyed on its own as a satisfying snack.

Table of Contents

Ingredients that Elevate the Flavor

The beauty of the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredient list. Let’s take a closer look at each component and how it contributes to the overall success of this recipe:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation that provides structure and texture to the bread.
• Baking Powder: The leavening agent that gives the quick bread its light and airy rise.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the richness of the cheese and herbs.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle hint of heat, creating a delightful contrast to the other flavors.
• Milk: Contributes moisture and creaminess to the dough.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together, resulting in a tender and cohesive crumb.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the bread, ensuring a moist and flavorful texture.
• Shredded Cheese: The star of the show, providing pockets of melty, gooey goodness throughout the loaf.
• Fresh Chopped Herbs: Infuse the bread with a fragrant and aromatic punch, elevating the overall flavor profile.

Baking the Perfect Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Ready to bring this savory delight to life? Follow these simple steps to create your own Herb & Cheese Quick Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy release.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then, add the milk and olive oil or melted butter, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
4. Bring it All Together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain the bread’s tender texture.
5. Add the Cheese and Herbs: Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped fresh herbs, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice and serve the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread slightly warm for melty cheese bites, or let it cool completely for firmer slices.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

The beauty of the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread lies in its versatility. While the recipe provided is a delicious starting point, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese and herb combinations to suit your taste buds.

Try swapping out the cheddar or mozzarella for other melty cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorites. And when it comes to the herbs, feel free to mix and match – parsley, rosemary, thyme, and chives all make excellent additions. For a little extra zing, you could even fold in some minced garlic or sun-dried tomatoes.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour blend. The result will be a delightfully tender and flavorful quick bread that accommodates various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a versatile companion that can elevate a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside hearty soups, such as French Onion or Tomato Basil, for a satisfying and comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with fresh salads, adding a savory and textural element to your greens.

For a unique twist, try toasting slices of the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread and serving them with a generous smear of garlic butter or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying this flavorful quick bread.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Savory Herb Scones: Similar ingredients and technique, with a flakier texture.
• Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: A quick bread variant with a twist, featuring garlic and cheese.
• Herb & Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: Using similar flavors in a different form.
• Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry: A flaky alternative to quick breads.

FAQs

What is the secret to success when making quick breads? The key to successful quick breads is to avoid over-mixing the batter. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined, as over-mixing can result in a tough, dense texture.

How long does cheese bread need to be refrigerated? Herb & Cheese Quick Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can slice the bread and freeze it for up to 3 months.

How long does quick bread take? The Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe provided takes approximately 45-50 minutes to bake in the oven, plus an additional 10 minutes of cooling time. The total time from start to finish is around 1 hour.

What should you avoid doing when making a quick bread? In addition to over-mixing, it’s important to avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking, as this can cause the bread to collapse or become dense. Additionally, be careful not to overbake the bread, as this can result in a dry, crumbly texture.

Conclusion: Embrace the Savory Delight of Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

The Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a true culinary gem – a simple, yet flavorful quick bread that can elevate any meal or snack. With its aromatic herbs, melty cheese, and tender crumb, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to experience the irresistible allure of this savory delight.

For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Print