Introduction
Craving warm, comforting bread without the hours of kneading and rising? Look no further! This cheesy herb quick bread is the answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for accompanying any meal, from a hearty soup to a simple salad. With a handful of pantry staples and your favorite cheeses and herbs, you can whip up this delightful loaf in under an hour. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Making Cheesy Herb Quick Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and chives)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh herbs.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 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.
Tips and Variations for the Best Quick Bread
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp provolone would be delicious additions.
- Herb Combinations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your herbs. Parsley, oregano, and basil are also great choices. Dried herbs can be substituted, but use about half the amount.
- Add-ins: Consider adding diced sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even cooked bacon for an extra burst of flavor.
- Making it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy herb quick bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve warm with butter or olive oil.
- Accompany a bowl of soup or chili.
- Enjoy it alongside a fresh salad.
- Use it to make sandwiches or toast it for breakfast.
- Serve as an appetizer with a cheese board.
Conclusion
This cheesy herb quick bread is a simple and delicious way to add a touch of homemade goodness to any meal. Its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients make it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy, and flavorful loaf of bread that everyone will love!
