This Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is a delightful and savory loaf that comes together with remarkable ease, requiring no yeast or kneading, making it a perfect option for those seeking a flavorful bread without the time commitment of traditional baking. The “quick bread” designation stems from its reliance on chemical leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda, which provide the necessary rise without the extended proofing time associated with yeast. This particular rendition is elevated by the inclusion of generous amounts of cheese, which melts into the crumb during baking, imparting a rich, savory flavor and a wonderfully moist and tender texture. Furthermore, the addition of aromatic herbs infuses the loaf with a fragrant and herbaceous character, making it a versatile accompaniment to a wide array of meals or a satisfying snack on its own.
The texture of this Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is one of its most appealing qualities. Unlike denser, yeast-leavened breads, this quick bread boasts a relatively light and airy crumb, punctuated by pockets of melted cheese that contribute a delightful gooeyness. The crust develops a beautiful golden-brown hue during baking, often exhibiting a slightly rustic and uneven surface, especially if the batter is simply spooned into the loaf pan. The herbs, scattered throughout the batter and often sprinkled on top, add subtle textural nuances, some softening into the crumb while others on the crust become slightly crisp. The overall texture is soft, moist, and incredibly satisfying, making each slice a pleasure to eat.
The flavor profile of this bread is predominantly savory, with the distinct taste of the chosen cheese taking center stage. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, providing a sharp and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. However, other cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can be used to create different flavor dimensions. The garlic, whether in powdered or fresh minced form, adds a pungent and aromatic depth that enhances the savory character. The herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or a combination thereof (Italian seasoning), contribute a fragrant and slightly earthy note that elevates the overall complexity of the bread. A hint of onion powder can further round out the savory flavors. The result is a flavorful loaf that is both comforting and satisfying, with a delightful balance of cheesy, garlicky, and herbaceous notes.
This Cheesy Herb Quick Bread is incredibly versatile in its applications. It makes a wonderful accompaniment to soups, stews, and salads, providing a flavorful counterpoint to more liquid-based dishes. It can also be served alongside pasta dishes or as a savory side to grilled meats or vegetables. Sliced and lightly toasted, it becomes a delicious base for appetizers or a satisfying snack on its own, perhaps with a smear of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Its ease of preparation also makes it a fantastic option for a last-minute addition to a meal or a thoughtful homemade gift.
The preparation of this quick bread is remarkably simple and straightforward. The dry ingredients are typically whisked together in one bowl, while the wet ingredients are combined in another. These are then gently combined, taking care not to overmix, which can lead to a tougher bread. The cheese and herbs are folded into the batter before it is poured into a greased loaf pan and baked until golden brown and cooked through. The entire process, from mixing to baking, can often be completed in under an hour, making it an incredibly convenient option for busy individuals or those new to baking. The aroma that fills the kitchen as this cheesy, herby bread bakes is simply irresistible, promising a warm and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1 1/4 cups buttermilk (or 1 1/4 cups milk + 1 1/4 tablespoons lemon juice or white vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (such as rosemary, thyme, parsley), for topping (optional)
Equipment:
9×5 inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack
Instructions:
Preheat Oven and Prepare Loaf Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter and flour to prevent sticking.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), dried rosemary, dried thyme, and dried oregano (or Italian seasoning) until well combined. This ensures the leavening agents and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Stir in Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice) to the dry ingredients and toss gently to coat. This helps to prevent the cheese from clumping together and ensures it is evenly dispersed in the batter.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk (or milk mixture), vegetable oil, and lightly beaten large egg until the wet ingredients are well combined and smooth.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and cheese. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are okay; overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher bread.
Pour Batter into Loaf Pan: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased loaf pan.
Add Herb Topping (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the top of the batter with the chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley, etc.) for an added visual and aromatic touch.
Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The top of the bread should be golden brown and the sides should be pulling away slightly from the pan.
Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottom of the bread from becoming soggy.
Slice and Serve: Once the Cheesy Herb Quick Bread has cooled sufficiently, slice it with a serrated knife and serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own as a savory snack.
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Cheesy Herb Quick Bread!