There’s something truly comforting about a freshly baked loaf of quick bread, and this Cheddar Herb Quick Bread is no exception. With its golden crust, rich cheddar flavor, and fresh herb aroma, this bread is the perfect balance of savory and fluffy. Whether you’re serving it as a side for soup, toasting it with butter for breakfast, or simply enjoying it as a snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
The best part? This recipe requires no yeast and comes together in under an hour! Buttermilk gives the bread a tender crumb, while melted butter ensures a rich, moist texture. The combination of sharp cheddar, fresh chives, and parsley makes every bite burst with flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful mix of cheese and herbs in every slice!
full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and parsley, making sure the cheese is evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 225 kcal | Servings: 8 slices
A Delicious, No-Yeast Bread That’s Ready in Under an Hour
Cheddar Herb Quick Bread is a simple yet incredibly flavorful bread that brings together the rich taste of sharp cheddar cheese, the freshness of herbs, and the comforting texture of homemade bread—all without the hassle of yeast or long proofing times. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook looking for an easy homemade bread recipe, this quick bread is a perfect addition to your baking repertoire.
But what makes this recipe so special? Let’s dive into its history, benefits, serving suggestions, and everything else you need to know before baking this delicious loaf.
The Background of Quick Bread
Quick breads are a category of bread that do not require yeast for leavening. Instead, they rely on baking powder and/or baking soda to create a rise, making them incredibly easy to prepare. Unlike traditional yeast bread, which can take hours to rise and requires kneading, quick bread is mixed, poured into a pan, and baked immediately. The concept of quick breads became widely popular in the 19th century when baking soda and baking powder were introduced to home baking. These chemical leaveners revolutionized bread-making, allowing for faster, more convenient recipes without compromising texture or taste. Cheddar Herb Quick Bread is one such example, combining the ease of quick bread with the rich, savory flavors of cheese and herbs.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- No Yeast Required – Traditional bread recipes often require yeast, which involves proofing and waiting for the dough to rise. This recipe eliminates that step, making it perfect for those who want fresh bread without the long wait.
- Easy to Make – With just a few simple ingredients and no special baking skills needed, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Just mix, pour, and bake!
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like chives and parsley gives this bread an incredible depth of flavor. The cheese melts into the dough, creating delicious pockets of gooey goodness, while the herbs add freshness to every bite.
- Moist & Tender Texture – Thanks to buttermilk and melted butter, this bread has a wonderfully moist and tender crumb. It’s not dry or crumbly like some quick breads can be.
- Pairs Well with Any Meal – This savory bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside soups, salads, or roasted meats, or enjoy it toasted with a bit of butter.
- Customizable – You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste by adding different cheeses, swapping out herbs, or even incorporating extra ingredients like caramelized onions, bacon bits, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Ingredients Breakdown & Their Benefits
All-Purpose Flour
- Flour is the base of this bread, providing structure and texture. If you prefer a slightly nuttier taste, you can swap it for whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that this may make the bread denser.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda
- These leavening agents help the bread rise and create a light texture without the need for yeast.
Salt & Sugar
- Salt enhances the flavor of the bread, while a small amount of sugar balances the savory notes and adds depth to the taste.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Cheddar cheese not only adds a bold, tangy flavor but also provides richness and a slight chewiness to the bread. Using sharp or extra-sharp cheddar ensures the flavor stands out.
Fresh Herbs (Chives & Parsley)
- Fresh chives add a mild onion-like flavor, while parsley provides a bright, slightly peppery taste. These herbs elevate the overall taste of the bread and give it a fresh, homemade feel.
Buttermilk
- Buttermilk is key to achieving a moist, tender texture. Its slight acidity reacts with the baking soda, helping the bread rise beautifully while also enhancing its flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Egg
- Eggs contribute to the structure and richness of the bread, making it slightly fluffy rather than too dense.
Melted Butter
- Butter adds moisture and a slightly crisp crust to the bread. You can also use olive oil for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve Cheddar Herb Quick Bread
One of the best things about this bread is its versatility. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:
- With Soup: Serve a warm slice alongside a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, or potato leek soup. The cheesy bread complements the flavors beautifully.
- As a Side Dish: This bread pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. It adds a delicious, cheesy element to your meal.
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Toast a slice and top it with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or even avocado for a satisfying start to the day.
- For Snacking: This bread is delicious on its own, whether fresh out of the oven or toasted with a drizzle of honey or garlic butter.
- With Dips: Cut the bread into small cubes and serve it with spinach dip, hummus, or a warm cheese dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Cheddar Herb Quick Bread
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough bread. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. Grate your own cheddar for the best results.
- Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
- Let it Cool – Allow the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to help it set properly and maintain its structure.
- Experiment with Add-Ins – Try adding cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic to customize the flavor.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Storing: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate it, warm it slightly before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Cheddar Herb Quick Bread is an easy, no-fuss recipe that delivers incredible flavor and texture in under an hour. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this bread is a fantastic addition to your collection. Its rich cheddar taste, combined with the freshness of herbs, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable! Whether you like it plain, spicy, or extra cheesy, this bread adapts to your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen—you won’t be disappointed!
