Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

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Golden on the outside with a tender, cheesy interior, Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a savory masterpiece that brings rustic charm to any meal. It’s the kind of loaf that perfumes your kitchen with the earthy aroma of fresh herbs and the richness of bubbling cheese as it bakes. No yeast, no rise time—just simple ingredients blended into a deliciously hearty bread in under an hour.

This recipe is perfect for when you’re craving something homemade and comforting, but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. Whether served warm with a bowl of soup or sliced up for brunch, this bread delivers bursts of flavor in every bite, thanks to sharp cheddar, fragrant herbs, and a perfectly golden crust.

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Why You’ll Love This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• No Yeast, No Fuss: Forget waiting for dough to rise—this is a quick mix-and-bake recipe.
• Versatile Flavor: You can switch up the herbs or cheeses depending on what you have on hand.
• Perfect Texture: Crisp on the outside, soft and moist on the inside.
• Pairs with Everything: Great with soups, salads, eggs, or just with butter.
• Impressively Simple: Looks gourmet, but it’s surprisingly easy to make.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread seamlessly, having the right tools ready is key:

• Mixing Bowls (Large & Medium) – You’ll need a large bowl for combining dry ingredients and a medium one for whisking the wet ones. Keeping them separate until mixing ensures an even, lump-free batter.
• Whisk & Spatula – A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly and evenly, while a spatula is ideal for gently folding in cheese and herbs without overmixing.
• Standard 9×5-inch Loaf Pan – This is the perfect size to ensure your bread bakes evenly and gets that ideal rise and crust.
• Box Grater – For freshly grating cheese, which melts more smoothly and adds richer flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• Oven Thermometer (Optional but Helpful) – Ensures your oven is actually at the correct temperature, which is crucial for even baking.

Having these on hand before starting saves time and reduces the chance of overmixing or missing a step.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and milk should be at room temperature so they incorporate smoothly into the batter.
• Fresh Herbs are Best: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh parsley, chives, and rosemary bring unbeatable aroma and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined—overworking the dough makes it dense and tough.
• Grease the Loaf Pan Generously: Either with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and promote a crispy edge.
• Let It Cool: Allow the bread to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. This helps it finish setting and keeps the bottom from getting soggy.

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Ingredients for This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful, savory loaf:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  A solid base for the bread that gives it structure.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
  Provides the necessary lift without yeast.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
  Helps balance acidity and enhances the rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt
  Enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  Adds a gentle heat and depth.
• 1 ¼ cups (140g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  Bold and melty—cheddar infuses every bite with rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  For freshness and brightness.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  Lends a mild oniony note.
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (or thyme)
  Earthy and aromatic, great for savory undertones.
• 2 large eggs
  Binds the batter and adds richness.
• ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk
  Buttermilk will give a slight tang and extra tenderness.
• ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil or melted unsalted butter
  Keeps the crumb moist and flavorful.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  Adds complexity and enhances the cheese flavor.

Optional garnish: extra cheese and chopped herbs for topping before baking.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then optionally line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped herbs (parsley, chives, rosemary). Coating the cheese in the flour helps prevent it from sinking during baking.

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Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or buttermilk, olive oil or melted butter, and Dijon mustard (if using) until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.

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Step 4: Bring It All Together

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together just until no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix—the batter will be slightly thick and lumpy, and that’s okay.

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Step 5: Transfer to Pan and Add Toppings

Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the back of a spoon. If desired, sprinkle a little extra cheese and chopped herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

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Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

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Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool for at least 20 more minutes. Slicing too early may cause it to crumble, so patience pays off here!

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Notes

• Cheese Variety: While sharp cheddar is the classic go-to, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, fontina, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños if you want a subtle kick.
• Dairy Substitutes: You can substitute whole milk with plant-based alternatives (like oat milk) but expect a slightly different texture.
• Double It Up: This recipe can easily be doubled—just bake in two pans or use a large one and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Serving Tip: This bread is especially good warm, with a pat of butter, or lightly toasted the next day.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overmixing the Batter: This is the #1 mistake. Overmixed quick bread turns out tough and dense. Stop stirring as soon as the flour disappears.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often has anti-caking agents that can affect melt and flavor. Always shred fresh cheese if possible.
• Skipping the Herbs: Dried herbs don’t quite replicate the flavor burst of fresh ones. Use fresh if available for best results.
• Opening the Oven Too Soon: Let it bake at least 40 minutes before opening the oven door or you risk collapsing the loaf.
• Underbaking: If the middle is still wet, the loaf needs more time. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
• Not Letting It Cool: Cutting too soon can lead to a gummy texture. Give it time to set after baking.
• Wrong Pan Size: Using a pan that’s too small can cause overflow; too large may dry it out. Stick with a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• Storing Warm: Never wrap or store the bread while it’s still warm—it’ll turn soggy.

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What to Serve With Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

This savory loaf is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with many meals, from light lunches to hearty dinners.

8 Recommendations:

1. Tomato Basil Soup
   The richness of the bread is a perfect contrast to a tangy, comforting soup.
2. Scrambled Eggs or Omelets
   Add this bread to your breakfast plate for a cheesy, herby upgrade.
3. Grilled Chicken Salad
   Light, fresh, and full of contrast—a slice of this bread rounds out the meal.
4. Butternut Squash Soup
   Creamy and sweet soups pair excellently with the savory depth of the bread.
5. Beef Stew or Chili
   Use thick slices to soak up all the hearty flavors.
6. Charcuterie Boards
   Cut into cubes or thin slices and serve alongside cured meats, fruits, and dips.
7. Poached Eggs and Avocado
   Make it a brunch hit with a little avocado spread and runny yolk on top.
8. Roasted Vegetables
   A great plant-based combo—hearty roasted veggies next to a slice of warm, cheesy bread.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread fresh and flavorful:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 2 days. Make sure the bread is completely cooled before storing.
• Refrigerator: Extend freshness to 5–6 days by refrigerating. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a sealed container to avoid drying out.
• Freezer: Freeze slices or the whole loaf (well wrapped in plastic and then foil) for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes.

Tip: For toast-perfect results, slice before freezing so you can pull out just what you need.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice, based on 10 slices)

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 310mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Category: Quick Bread
• Diet: Vegetarian

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly based on specific cheese, milk, and oil used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can. Use one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated—just note that fresh herbs give brighter flavor and better texture.

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2. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Be sure your baking powder is gluten-free too.

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3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely. Gruyère, feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack all work well depending on the flavor profile you want.

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4. Why did my bread come out too dense?

Most likely from overmixing the batter or using old baking powder. Be gentle when folding the wet and dry ingredients together.

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5. Can I make muffins with this recipe instead?

Yes! Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes. Great for portable snacks.

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6. What’s the best way to reheat a slice?

Toast it lightly in a pan with butter or pop it in a toaster oven at 300°F for 5–6 minutes for a fresh-baked feel.

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7. Is this bread suitable for kids?

Yes! The mild cheese and soft texture make it a kid-friendly choice. Skip strong herbs or spicy cheese for young palates.

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8. Can I add other mix-ins like nuts or olives?

Yes, and it’s delicious! Try chopped walnuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or sliced black olives for a Mediterranean twist.

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Conclusion

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-packed bread for busy cooks who still want something homemade and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven, toasted with breakfast, or as a savory side, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity. Once you try it, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your baking rotation. No yeast, no waiting—just pure comfort, fast.

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