Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Imagine biting into a warm, fragrant slice of **Herb & Cheese Quick Bread**, the savory aroma of herbs mingling with the comforting scent of baked cheese. It’s a flavor explosion that will transport you to a cozy countryside kitchen, even if you’re just in your pajamas.

I still remember the first time I baked this bread. It was a rainy afternoon, and the smell of herbs and cheese filled the house, chasing away the gloom. Perfect for a lazy weekend brunch, a sophisticated appetizer, or even a midnight snack, this bread is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a culinary adventure that’s both simple and sensational!

• Effortless to prepare, ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• A delightful combination of savory herbs and melted cheese offers an irresistible and comforting taste.
• Its golden crust and vibrant green herbs create a visually appealing centerpiece for any table.
• Enjoy it on its own, pair it with soups, salads, or use it as a base for delicious appetizers.

Ingredients for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour Provides the structure for the bread. Unbleached flour works best for a slightly denser texture.

Baking Powder The leavening agent that makes the bread rise. Ensure it is fresh for optimal results.

Salt Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. Use sea salt or kosher salt for best results.

Unsalted Butter Adds richness and moisture to the bread. Ensure it is cold for a flakier texture.

Eggs Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture. Use large eggs for consistency.

Milk Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter. Whole milk or 2% milk works well.

Fresh Rosemary Imparts a distinctive piney flavor. Chop finely for even distribution.

Fresh Thyme Adds an earthy and slightly floral note. Remove the leaves from the stems before chopping.

Cheddar Cheese Provides a sharp and savory flavor. Shredded cheddar melts beautifully into the bread.

Monterey Jack Cheese Contributes to the cheesy flavor and adds a mild, creamy texture. Shredded Monterey Jack melts very well.

Garlic Powder Enhances the savory flavor of the bread. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking. This will make removing the bread much easier after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures consistent flavor and leavening throughout the bread.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates pockets of butter that melt during baking, resulting in a tender and flaky texture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Cheese

Gently fold in the fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Ensure the herbs and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy the herb and cheese quick bread.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To maximize efficiency and achieve that perfect golden crust on your **Herb & Cheese Quick Bread**, prep all your ingredients first. Mix the dry and wet components separately, then gently combine. A hot oven is key, ensuring a beautiful rise and even bake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative! Swap the cheddar for Gruyère or add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dill. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also introduce a subtle kick to your **Herb & Cheese Quick Bread**.

Storing & Reheating

Store your **Herb & Cheese Quick Bread** in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a warm, comforting treat.

Here are a few tips to ensure your **Herb & Cheese Quick Bread** turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay! Overmixing develops the gluten and leads to a tough, rather than tender, loaf.

• Make sure your baking powder is fresh. This ensures a good rise, resulting in a light and airy **Herb & Cheese Quick Bread**.

• Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This prevents it from crumbling and makes it easier to handle.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I once brought this bread to a potluck, and it was gone within minutes! My friend’s kid, who usually avoids anything green, devoured a whole slice. That’s when I knew I had a real winner.

Conclusion for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a fantastic recipe. It’s simple, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. With its savory flavors and rustic charm, it’s perfect for any occasion. From a cozy family dinner to a potluck with friends, this bread is sure to be a hit. Experiment with your favorite cheeses and herbs to create your own unique version. Enjoy the deliciousness and ease of homemade bread without the fuss! So bake, enjoy, and share the love (and the bread!).

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FAQs

Can I customize the cheeses in this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is very forgiving. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a bit of crumbled feta would all be delicious additions or substitutions. Consider the flavor profiles and textures you enjoy. A mix of hard and soft cheeses can create a wonderfully complex taste. Just be sure to keep the total cheese amount roughly the same to maintain the bread’s texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s where the magic happens!

What’s the best way to store Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

The best way to store your delightful Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is to let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, it will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to two months. Just thaw it completely before enjoying. A quick warm-up in the oven will revive its delicious aroma and texture.

Can I add other ingredients to this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Of course! Think of this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted garlic, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes would add a delightful twist. Just be mindful of adding too many wet ingredients. That could affect the bread’s overall texture. About a half-cup of additions is usually a good starting point. Have fun experimenting and creating your signature version!

What kind of herbs work best in this easy Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

Fresh herbs are the star of the show in this recipe, so choose ones you truly love. Rosemary, thyme, chives, and parsley are all fantastic choices. You can even use a mix of your favorites. If you’re using dried herbs, remember that they have a more concentrated flavor. Use about a third of the amount called for in the recipe. Fresh herbs will impart a brighter, more vibrant taste to your Herb & Cheese loaf.