Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

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I’ve always had a soft spot for breads that blur the line between savory and indulgent, and this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread hits that sweet spot perfectly. There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm aroma of fresh herbs and bubbling cheese drifting through the kitchen as this bread bakes. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to linger a little longer by the oven, sneaking tastes of golden edges while it cools just enough to slice.

What I especially love about this bread is how effortlessly it comes together. No kneading, no yeast, no waiting for dough to rise—just a quick mix and a short bake, and you’ve got yourself a loaf that’s both rustic and elegant. It’s perfect for last-minute guests, lazy weekend brunches, or simply as a flavorful snack with a warm bowl of soup.

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Why You’ll Love This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• Fast and fuss-free: Skip the yeast and rise time—this is a true quick bread.
• Packed with flavor: A blend of cheese and fresh herbs makes every bite rich and fragrant.
• Versatile companion: It pairs well with soups, salads, or even your morning eggs.
• Crowd-pleaser: The golden top and gooey cheese make this loaf impossible to resist.
• Customizable: Use your favorite cheeses or herbs and make it your own.

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What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?

When it comes to cheese in this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread, I like to go with a combination that balances meltability and bold flavor. Sharp cheddar is always a solid choice—it melts beautifully and has a rich, tangy bite that holds up against the herbs. Mozzarella, on the other hand, adds that lovely stretch and gooeyness, but on its own can be a bit too mild. I’ve also had great success with gruyère, feta crumbles, or even a sprinkle of parmesan on top for a savory crust.

The key is to use cheese that complements your herbs. For example, if you’re using rosemary or thyme, a nutty cheese like gruyère or asiago is fantastic. If you’re using basil or parsley, cheddar or mozzarella works better for that softer, buttery finish.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re missing a few ingredients or just want to switch things up, here are some simple swaps that still deliver delicious results:

• Herbs: Use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available—just cut the amount in half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a spicier edge.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but whole wheat flour adds a heartier texture (use half and half to keep it light).
• Milk: You can substitute with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk if you want a dairy-free version.
• Butter: Olive oil works well as a butter substitute and adds a slightly fruity depth.

This bread is super forgiving, so don’t be afraid to improvise a bit based on what you have in your kitchen.

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Ingredients for This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Here’s a look at the essential ingredients and why each one matters for the texture and flavor of the bread:

• All-Purpose Flour
  This is the backbone of the bread. It provides structure and allows the other ingredients to bind together into a sturdy but tender loaf.
• Baking Powder
  Since we’re skipping yeast, baking powder gives the bread its rise. It helps create that light, fluffy texture without any waiting around.
• Salt
  A small but mighty addition. It sharpens the flavor of the cheese and herbs and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
• Fresh Herbs (like thyme, parsley, or rosemary)
  These bring the bread to life. They add a fresh, aromatic quality and pair beautifully with the cheese. You can use one type or a mix.
• Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or a blend)
  This is the heart of the bread. It adds richness, creaminess, and that irresistible savory pull in every bite.
• Milk
  Provides moisture and helps the dry ingredients blend smoothly. Whole milk adds a touch of richness, but other kinds work too.
• Egg
  It acts as a binder, helping everything hold together while also giving the loaf a soft, cohesive crumb.
• Butter (melted)
  Adds moisture and richness, giving the bread a tender crumb and a lovely golden edge when baked.

Each of these ingredients works in harmony to create a loaf that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for so many occasions.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution so your bread rises consistently and the seasoning is balanced throughout.

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Step 3: Add the Cheese and Herbs

Toss in your shredded or crumbled cheese and chopped fresh herbs. Stir them gently into the dry ingredients. This helps keep the cheese and herbs evenly dispersed, so you get bits in every bite.

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Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth and fully combined. This liquid mixture will help bring everything together into a cohesive batter.

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Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and fold everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix, or the bread can turn out dense.

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Step 6: Pour Into Pan and Top

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If you’d like, sprinkle a little extra cheese or herbs on top for a beautiful finish and added flavor.

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Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

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Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly more—then slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

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How Long to Cook the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

This quick bread bakes in 45 to 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Don’t rely on visual cues alone—some cheeses can bubble up and create golden spots early, so always test the center.

Let the bread rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it firm up a bit so it slices more cleanly.

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Tips for Perfect Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• Don’t overmix. Stir just until the batter comes together. Overmixing develops too much gluten, which can lead to a tough loaf.
• Use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect how it melts and blends.
• Let ingredients come to room temperature. Especially the milk and egg—this helps them incorporate more evenly.
• Add toppings before baking. A sprinkle of extra cheese or herbs makes the loaf more attractive and flavorful.
• Rotate the pan halfway through. If your oven has hot spots, this ensures even browning and baking.

These small touches can make a noticeable difference in how your loaf turns out—moist inside, crisp outside, and full of flavor in every bite.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is easy to make, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your final loaf:

• Overmixing the batter: This is the most frequent mistake. Stir only until the dry and wet ingredients are combined—lumps are okay!
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can cause the melted butter to clump, making the batter uneven. Let them sit out for a few minutes before mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping directly from the bag can compact the flour and throw off your ratios. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off instead.
• Skipping the grease or parchment in the loaf pan: The bread will stick, especially with all that melted cheese, and you’ll lose that nice crust when trying to remove it.
• Cutting too soon: Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Cutting too early can cause it to fall apart and become gummy.

Avoiding these mistakes will make sure your bread is as flavorful and satisfying as it should be.

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What to Serve With Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

This savory bread shines as a side or a complement to many dishes. Here are a few of my go-to pairings:

1. Tomato Soup

A classic match. The tangy sweetness of the soup balances the richness of the cheesy bread.

2. Soft Scrambled Eggs

Serve slices of the bread alongside eggs for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

3. Roasted Chicken

It makes a lovely side in place of traditional rolls, soaking up all the juices on your plate.

4. Simple Green Salad

The fresh crunch of salad greens with vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the dense, savory loaf.

5. Chili or Stew

The bread’s cheesy base pairs wonderfully with spicy or rich meat dishes.

6. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

Spread a little cream cheese and top with salmon for a quick, elegant appetizer.

7. Garlic Butter or Herb Spread

Enjoy it warm with a flavored butter for a decadent, flavor-packed bite.

8. Charcuterie Board

Slice it thin and serve with meats and cheeses for a rustic, flavorful touch.

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Storage Instructions

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread stores surprisingly well, making it great for prepping ahead or saving leftovers.

• Room Temperature: Wrap the bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For a few extra days of shelf life, store it in the fridge—just note that refrigeration may slightly dry it out. Reheat slices gently to bring back moisture.
• Freezer: This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in a zip-top bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature or warm in the oven for that just-baked feel.

To reheat, toast slices in a toaster oven or warm gently in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general nutrition breakdown per slice (assuming 10 slices per loaf). Exact values may vary depending on the type and amount of cheese and herbs used:

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 360mg

This bread is rich and satisfying—perfect as an occasional indulgence or part of a balanced meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese works best for this bread?

Sharp cheddar is a favorite for its bold flavor, but you can also use mozzarella, gruyère, parmesan, or a combination. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well and complements the herbs you’re using.

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Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes! Substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so you need less.

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Is this bread supposed to rise like yeast bread?

Not quite. It will rise slightly thanks to the baking powder, but it’s meant to be denser and more like a moist, savory loaf cake.

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How can I make this bread more moist?

Don’t overbake it, and ensure your wet ingredients are at room temperature. Adding a touch more butter or using whole milk also helps keep it tender.

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Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes—swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum or similar binding agents. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be tasty.

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How do I know when it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Also, the top should be golden and firm.

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What’s the best way to reheat it?

Wrap a slice in foil and reheat it in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about 5–8 minutes. This brings back the fresh-baked texture.

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Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Cooked bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even chopped jalapeños can be folded in for extra flavor. Just don’t overload the batter, or it could become too heavy.

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Conclusion

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the kind of recipe that makes you fall in love with simple baking. No complicated steps, no need for yeast or fancy equipment—just wholesome ingredients coming together to create something warm, savory, and soul-satisfying. Whether you serve it at brunch, alongside dinner, or as a snack on its own, this bread never fails to impress. Once you bake it, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen just like it did in mine.

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