If you’re in search of an irresistibly savory, aromatic slice of comfort, look no further than this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. It’s a one-bowl wonder that brings together sharp cheddar, earthy herbs, and a tender, moist crumb that begs to be torn apart while still warm. Whether you’re serving it with a bowl of soup, tucking a slice into a picnic basket, or simply snacking in the afternoon, this quick loaf promises flavor and ease with every bite. Say goodbye to waiting for yeast or lengthy kneading — you can whip up this delicious bread any time a cheesy, herby craving strikes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Herb & Cheese Quick Bread lies in its unfussy ingredient list, where each component is thoughtfully chosen for maximum flavor and tender texture. From pantry staples to punchy cheeses and fresh herbs, every item pulls its weight to create a loaf you’ll want to make on repeat.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives your bread structure and a reliable crumb.
- Baking powder: Provides the lift — this is what helps the loaf rise without yeast.
- Baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk for extra tenderness and height.
- Salt: Brightens all the flavors and keeps the loaf from tasting flat.
- Garlic powder: Adds warmth and savory depth — think of it as a background note that makes everything pop.
- Dried Italian herbs: A blend of thyme, oregano, and basil infuses the loaf with classic Mediterranean aroma.
- Black pepper: A touch for gentle heat and balance.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melt-in-the-mouth sharpness and gooey pockets throughout the loaf.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings bold, salty, and nutty character that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Lends a pop of color and herbal freshness; dried works in a pinch.
- Eggs: The binder that keeps everything together and adds richness.
- Buttermilk: Gives a lovely tang and tender crumb — plus unbeatable moisture.
- Olive oil: Adds a delicate flavor and helps keep the bread soft; melted butter is a great option too.
How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Before you dive into mixing, set yourself up for quick assembly later. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and either grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for fuss-free removal. This head start will help you transition effortlessly from batter to bake once your wet and dry ingredients are ready.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, and black pepper. This step helps everything blend evenly, so each bite of your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is bursting with consistent flavor and lift.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Parsley
Stir in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley, making sure each cheesy strand is coated with flour. This little trick prevents the cheese from sinking to the bottom and ensures gorgeous, flavorful cheese pockets throughout your loaf.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and olive oil in a separate bowl. This mixture brings all the wet elements into perfect harmony, creating a rich and cohesive base for the bread.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula or large spoon. Blend only until everything is just combined — the magic of Herb & Cheese Quick Bread relies on this restraint. Overmixing leads to tough bread, so stop as soon as you see the last trace of flour disappear.
Step 6: Bake
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—if you can resist sneaking a slice first!
How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Garnishes
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is incredibly tasty on its own, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a handful of additional chopped fresh parsley over each slice takes it up a notch. For special occasions, brush the top with a little melted butter and scatter extra grated Parmesan for a golden, savory finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This bread is a natural partner for cozy bowls of tomato soup, creamy potato leek soup, or a hearty chili. It also works wonders alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette—its savory qualities round out lighter main courses beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread thin and toasting it for gourmet croutons, or use thick slices for a decadent grilled cheese. It makes an unforgettable wedge for breakfast, paired with scrambled eggs, or tuck a slice into a picnic basket alongside some olives and grapes for a European-inspired snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Herb & Cheese Quick Bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is especially warm or humid, storing in the fridge will help extend its freshness to about five days.
Freezing
This quick bread freezes beautifully. Simply let the loaf cool completely, slice it, and lay the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. When you want a slice, just take out as many as you need—no need to thaw the whole loaf!
Reheating
To enjoy that just-baked flavor, reheat slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet until warm. You’ll revive its wonderful texture and bring the cheesy aroma right back to life. If reheating from frozen, a quick time in the microwave or a little extra patience in the toaster oven does the trick.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?
Absolutely! Swap in Gruyère for a nutty richness, Swiss for something milder, or pepper jack for a gentle kick. Mixing in small amounts of crumbled feta or even blue cheese offers bold new twists with minimal effort.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
No buttermilk? No problem. Mix 1 cup of regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, give it five minutes to curdle, and you’ll have a tangy, ready substitute perfect for this recipe.
Can I make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread gluten free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too, and check your blend doesn’t require any additional xanthan gum or adjustments.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your bread is ready. The top should also look golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Can I add other herbs or ingredients?
Definitely! Chopped chives, dill, or rosemary add a fresh twist. Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a handful of sautéed onions can be folded into the batter for extra personality and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort, convenience, and crave-worthy cheesy bread, Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the answer. It’s the recipe I turn to when I want something delicious fast, and it always wins raves. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it part of your own traditions — your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
Print
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a flavorful and easy-to-make savory loaf that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with herbs, cheddar, and Parmesan, it’s a delicious treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, oregano, and basil)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cheese & Herbs:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, herbs, and pepper in a bowl, then add cheeses and parsley.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Whisk eggs, buttermilk, and oil together in a separate bowl.
- Combine & Bake: Mix wet ingredients into dry until just combined. Pour into pan and bake for 40–45 minutes.
- Cool & Serve: Cool in pan, then transfer to a rack. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- You can swap cheddar for Gruyère, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, use 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
