Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is one of those magical recipes that capture the essence of home-cooked comfort while fitting perfectly into a busy schedule.
Whether you’re looking to impress weekend guests or just want a flavorful side for your weeknight dinner, this bread comes together swiftly and with ease. T
he combination of fragrant herbs and gooey cheese creates a delightful aroma that will make your kitchen feel like a cozy sanctuary.
Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that doesn’t require kneading or waiting for dough to rise?
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread pairs beautifully with a hot bowl of soup or chili, especially on a chilly evening.
For a lighter fare, serve it alongside a fresh, crisp salad. It’s also fantastic for breakfast, toasted with a bit of butter, or as a base for a savory sandwich.
The versatility of this bread makes it a staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Servings: 8
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, parsley, thyme, and rosemary until evenly distributed.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until well blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until 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.
How to Store Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
To keep your quick bread fresh and flavorful, follow these simple storage tips:
Room Temperature:
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For best texture, avoid storing in humid environments.
Refrigerator:
For longer storage (up to 5 days), refrigerate the bread in a sealed container.
Warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven before serving to bring back the soft texture and cheesy aroma.
Freezer:
Let the bread cool completely.
Slice the loaf, then wrap individual slices in parchment or wax paper.
Store wrapped slices in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
To serve, thaw slices at room temperature or reheat in a toaster or oven until warm.
Tip: Freezing in slices makes it easy to grab one at a time for a quick snack, breakfast, or side with soup!
Variations & Tips
Flavor Variations:
Cheese Swap:
Use shredded Gruyère, Swiss, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar for different flavors. A little Parmesan adds a salty, nutty bite.
Herb Alternatives:
Try chives, dill, oregano, or basil. If using dried herbs, reduce to about 1/3 the amount (e.g., 1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh).
Garlic & Onion Boost:
Add 1–2 cloves of minced garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic powder. A bit of finely chopped green onion or sautéed shallot also adds depth.
Spicy Kick:
Mix in 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Savory Add-ins:
Crumbled cooked bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped olives make tasty additions. Keep total add-ins to about 1/2 cup to avoid overloading the batter.
Baking Tips:
Don’t Overmix:
Stir until just combined. Overmixing activates the gluten and can make the bread tough instead of tender.
Check for Doneness:
Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If the top browns too fast, loosely tent with foil during the last 10–15 minutes.
Let It Cool:
Give it at least 10 minutes in the pan and 20–30 on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the structure set.
Double the Batch:
Make two loaves—one to enjoy now, one to freeze for later. It freezes beautifully!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 8g
Calcium: ~15% DV
Iron: ~10% DV
Notes:
These values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and brands used.
Using low-fat milk or cheese can reduce fat and calorie content.
Adding extras like bacon or olives will increase sodium and fat.