If you’re searching for a comforting, savory treat that comes together in a flash, this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine a moist, tender loaf bursting with sharp cheddar flavor and a hint of garlic, perfect for breakfast, snack time, or alongside your favorite meal. This bread is easy to whip up with simple ingredients, yet it delivers an impressive, crowd-pleasing result every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe invites you to indulge in homemade goodness with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to success in any baking adventure. Each item in this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe brings its own magic—flour provides structure, baking powder gives it a light rise, and cheddar cheese adds that irresistible savory punch. The garlic powder and a touch of sugar enhance flavor depth, balancing perfectly with the creamy moisture of milk and melted butter. Let’s dive into the essentials that make this bread sing.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread, giving it the perfect crumb and hold.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that ensures a lovely rise and fluffy texture.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just a hint to balance the savory flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note that complements the cheddar beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite pop.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient delivers a rich, tangy depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender, bringing all the ingredients together.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients for structure and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Infuses a silky texture and subtle buttery flavor.
How to Make Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease or spray a loaf pan to ensure your bread releases easily after baking. This early step sets the stage for baking success.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt. This thorough mixing ensures even distribution of leavening and flavors. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese to coat it with flour, which helps prevent sinking during baking.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, large egg, and melted butter. Whisk them together until smooth. These ingredients bring moisture and richness, crucial for a tender crumb with just the right density.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Components
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—remember, overmixing can lead to a tougher bread. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; this keeps your bread soft and light.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Scrape the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell alone will have your kitchen buzzing.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool. Cooling is key to letting the bread set properly and making slicing easy without crumbling. When it’s just right, cut into thick slices and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
This bread is wonderful on its own but elevating it with garnishes can make it extra special. Try a pat of herb butter, a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives, or a dash of smoked paprika for an eye-catching and flavorful finish. These simple touches add freshness and invite curiosity at the table.
Side Dishes
Looking to complete a meal? Pair your Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread with soup, chili, or a crisp green salad. The savory, cheesy bread perfectly balances hearty, spicy dishes, making it fantastic for lunch or dinner. It also makes a delightful base for appetizers topped with creamy spreads or fresh veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice the bread into bite-size cubes and serve with dips like spinach-artichoke or a bold tomato chutney. Toast thick slices and top with avocado and a poached egg for a luxurious brunch. No matter how you serve it, this bread always makes a memorable impression.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days. Keeping it well-covered prevents the bread from drying out and preserves its moist crumb and cheesy flavor.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing in a freezer bag. Frozen bread lasts up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating
To enjoy as if freshly baked, thaw frozen bread overnight in the fridge, then warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. This brings back the bread’s soft texture and rich aroma perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides classic flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for different tastes and textures. Just be sure to shred the cheese finely to melt evenly.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, but results may vary slightly in texture. Look for blends designed for baking to maintain lightness, and consider adding a binding agent like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.
Why didn’t my bread rise properly?
Under-rising can happen if the baking powder is old or if the batter was overmixed. Make sure your baking powder is fresh and mix the batter gently and only until just combined for the best rise and a tender crumb.
Can I add herbs or spices to enhance the flavor?
Definitely! Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley work wonderfully in this recipe. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne also creates a nice depth, perfect for those who love a little extra kick.
How should I slice the bread for serving?
Use a serrated knife to cut the bread into even slices, about ¾ inch thick. Letting the bread cool completely before slicing helps prevent crumbling, so patience here makes slicing easier and presentation prettier.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about homemade bread, and this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe offers all the deliciousness with none of the hassle. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you crave that cozy, cheesy goodness. Go ahead, try it, share it, and enjoy every warm, cheesy slice—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices) 1x
Description
This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a deliciously savory loaf that’s perfect for a quick snack or a hearty side. Featuring sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of garlic, this moist and flavorful bread comes together in minutes and bakes to a golden perfection. Ideal for sandwiches or enjoying on its own, this bread is an easy recipe that requires no yeast and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or spray a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and set this mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir gently just until the ingredients are combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Pour into Pan: Spoon or pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool. Once the bread is completely cooled, remove it from the pan, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread; mix just until ingredients are incorporated.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with other sharp cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a different flavor.
- For an extra flavor boost, add chopped herbs such as chives or rosemary into the batter.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- If you prefer a spicier bread, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the dry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
