If you’re looking for a delightfully savory treat that’s as comforting as it is easy to make, let me introduce you to the wonder that is Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. With its golden crust, moist interior, and bursts of cheesy, herby flavors, this bread feels like it was plucked straight from a country kitchen and brought right to your table. Best of all, there’s no yeast or waiting for dough to rise—just mix, bake, and watch as it becomes the star of your meal! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, this loaf is designed to make you look and feel like a kitchen rockstar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is in its simplicity; every ingredient is chosen for maximum impact. Each one helps create a loaf that’s tender, cheesy, flavorful, and gorgeously golden. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each component matters:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and a soft crumb.
- Baking powder: This is what gives our quick bread its lovely rise—no need for yeast!
- Baking soda: Works alongside the buttermilk for extra fluffiness and tenderness.
- Salt: Essential for brightening and balancing all the savory flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and an extra pop of flavor in each bite.
- Garlic powder: Gives that slow-cooked, roasted flavor instantly—no garlic mincing required.
- Dried Italian herbs: Oregano, basil, and thyme infuse the whole loaf with aromatic herby notes that sing.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of gooey, tangy goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that balances the cheddar perfectly.
- Buttermilk: Makes the crumb super tender and adds a subtle tang that keeps the bread moist.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and that sought-after buttery flavor in every slice.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and help the bread set up beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, colorful finish that adds brightness in flavor and appearance.
How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over slightly for easy bread removal. This little trick makes unmolding a breeze and keeps your loaf perfectly intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a roomy mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Take a moment to breathe in those intoxicating herby aromas; they set the stage for the bread’s signature flavor. Now, stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, ensuring they’re evenly coated in the flour mixture—this helps the cheese stay nicely distributed in the finished loaf instead of sinking to the bottom.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until you have a creamy, even mixture. The buttermilk not only adds moisture but also works with the baking soda to lift the bread, giving it a beautiful, tender crumb. Melted butter delivers the richness, while eggs provide structure.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the two together until just combined—don’t overmix, or your quick bread could turn out dense. The batter should be thick but spreadable, with visible flecks of herbs and generous cheese throughout.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The irresistible aroma of herbs and melting cheese will have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Garnish the still-warm bread with fresh parsley for a pop of color and garden-fresh flavor.
How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Garnishes
For that extra special touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A light brush of melted butter can add gloss and richness, while a tiny dusting of grated Parmesan creates an irresistible finish. These little add-ons make your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread look bakery-worthy without any fuss.
Side Dishes
This loaf is pure magic with a bowl of tomato soup, as an accompaniment to a fresh green salad, or alongside a hearty pasta dinner. Try it toasted in the morning with eggs, or as the savory star with any roasted vegetable platter. Its versatility means Herb & Cheese Quick Bread finds a home at brunches, picnics, and cozy dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread into cubes and serve as dippers for a creamy spinach or artichoke dip. Cut thin slices and toast them for a crunchy base that’s lovely with a few slices of smoked salmon or goat cheese. Or, use it as a sophisticated sandwich bread for lunchbox magic that puts ordinary sandwiches to shame.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your bread at its best, wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate for up to 5 days. The bread remains moist and flavorful, perfect for impromptu snacks or a quick side to any meal.
Freezing
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread freezes wonderfully! Allow the loaf to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic and foil, or place individual slices in freezer bags. Store for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or give slices a quick warm-up in the toaster or oven to revive their fresh-baked charm.
Reheating
For that just-out-of-the-oven texture, reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed through. If reheating a larger portion, tent with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This refreshes the crumb and brings out those dreamy aromas all over again.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar and Parmesan are a classic duo, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or even a hit of smoked provolone. Mixing cheeses can add fun new dimensions to your loaf.
Do I have to use buttermilk, or can I substitute it?
If you’re out of buttermilk, no worries—simply mix 1 1/4 cups of milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and you’re good to go. This gives the same tang and tenderizing effect as store-bought buttermilk.
What’s the secret to keeping the bread moist?
Don’t overbake, and store the loaf well-wrapped to keep air out. Buttermilk and eggs keep things tender and moist, but covering leftovers promptly makes the difference if you want that bakery-fresh texture even a couple of days later.
Can I add extra flavors or mix-ins?
Yes! Try stirring in chopped green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even cooked crumbled bacon for creative twists. The basic Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe is a perfect canvas for your taste inspirations.
Is this bread good for sandwiches?
It’s fantastic for sandwiches—especially with fillings like turkey, ham, roasted veggies, or a swipe of creamy spread. Just slice the loaf slightly thicker to hold your favorite fillings without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Herb & Cheese Quick Bread enough—it’s a golden, cheesy, herby wonder that bakes up quickly and instantly lifts any meal (or moment). If you love savory flavors and the satisfaction of homemade bread without the fuss, give this recipe a try and see why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a savory delight, packed with flavorful herbs and gooey cheese. It’s easy to make and perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs. Pour wet ingredients into dry mixture and stir gently.
- Bake: Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- This bread is delicious with added ingredients like green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or bacon.
- Store leftovers wrapped at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
