Name: Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread for Cozy Evenings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 200 grams sliced cheese (cheddar or tasty) (For added texture, slice cheese into varying widths.); 2.25 cups plain flour (all-purpose); 1 teaspoon baking soda (or substitute with 3½ teaspoons baking powder.); 0.5 teaspoon cooking salt (Use less if fine table salt is used.); 0.75 cup milk (full-fat or low-fat) (to keep the bread moist.); 0.5 cup plain yogurt (full-fat, unsweetened) (enhances moisture.); 2 large eggs (for binding and richness.); 50 grams unsalted butter, melted (adds richness and moisture.); 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs (1 tablespoon).); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (Can be swapped with other fresh herbs like basil or thyme.); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for earthy flavor.); 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme (adds depth and earthiness.); 2 cloves garlic, crushed (Use more if you love garlic.); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (to enrich texture.)

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The aroma wafting through the kitchen instantly takes me back to cherished moments spent with loved ones, laughter mingling with the comforting scent of freshly baked bread. This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is a delightful, no-yeast treasure that you can whip up in under an hour, making it an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights. Picture this: a warm, fluffy loaf packed with gooey cheese and fragrant herbs, perfect for dipping into soups or slathering with butter. Not only does this comforting quick bread eliminate the waiting time usually associated with yeast, but it also invites you to get creative with ingredient swaps, catering to your taste buds. Can you resist those cheesy, herb-infused slices? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

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Why You’ll Crave This Bread?

Quick and Easy: No yeast means no waiting! This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings.

Flavor Explosion: Infused with savory cheeses and fresh herbs, each bite is a taste sensation that adds warmth to any meal.

Ultra Moist: Thanks to the yogurt and olive oil, your bread will boast a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth, just like a cheesy biscuit!

Versatile Pairing: Great with everything—whether you’re serving it warm with a pat of butter or alongside a comforting soup or salad, like my Garlic Cheddar Beer.

Impressive Yet Simple: Perfect for gathering friends or family, this bread is bound to impress without the fuss. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a warm loaf at the table?

Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread Ingredients

• Discover the flavors that make this quick bread irresistible!

For the Batter
Cheese – 200 grams (7 ounces) sliced cheese (cheddar or tasty) for a rich, savory flavor. For added texture, slice cheese into varying widths.
Plain Flour – 2¼ cups (all-purpose) provides structure.
Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon or substitute with 3½ teaspoons baking powder for leavening.
Cooking Salt – ½ teaspoon, necessary for flavor. Use less if fine table salt is used.
Milk – ¾ cup (full-fat or low-fat) to keep the bread moist.
Plain Yogurt – ½ cup (full-fat, unsweetened) enhances moisture.
Eggs – 2 large for binding and richness.
Unsalted Butter – 50 grams (3½ tablespoons), melted, adds richness and moisture.
For the Herb Mixture
Fresh Rosemary – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped, to bring an aromatic freshness. Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs (1 tablespoon).
Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped, enhances the aroma and color. Can be swapped with other fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon for earthy flavor.
Dried Thyme – ½ teaspoon adds depth and earthiness.
Garlic – 2 cloves, crushed, to impart strong savory notes. Use more if you love garlic.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons to enrich texture.

Feel the warmth and comfort with every bite of this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread that’s bound to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures your Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a flavorful loaf. Greasing and lining your loaf pan now will prepare you for the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Take a standard loaf pan and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. For extra assurance, line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing easy removal of your bread once baked. Set the pan aside while you mix the herb swirl that will give your bread its amazing flavor.

Step 3: Make the Herb Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh rosemary, 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Add the crushed garlic and 3 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir this mixture until it forms a thick paste, infusing your quick bread with incredible herbaceous aromas.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together 2¼ cups of plain flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well blended. This will provide the structure your Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread needs. Make sure there are no lumps, as this step is crucial for achieving a light, fluffy texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of milk, ½ cup of plain yogurt, and 2 large eggs until smooth. Then incorporate 50 grams of melted unsalted butter into the mixture, mixing thoroughly to combine. These wet ingredients will ensure that you achieve a moist and delicious bread.

Step 6: Merge Mixtures
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in your smooth wet mixture. Using a spatula, gently stir the two together until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to a dense bread. The batter should be slightly lumpy, indicating just the right texture.

Step 7: Layer the Ingredients
Pour a third of your batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Next, dollop in some of the herb mixture and sprinkle on a layer of the cheese. Repeat this layering process twice more, finishing with the remaining batter on top. The final result will be a gorgeous swirl of herbs and cheese throughout the loaf.

Step 8: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to maintain moisture and continue baking for another 20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, your Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is ready.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows it to set properly, and your delicious quick bread will be easier to cut, revealing that delightful cheesy interior.

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How to Store and Freeze Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

Room Temperature: Keep the quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This ensures it stays moist and delicious for snacking or quick meals.

Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread. It will keep well for up to a week. To enjoy the best texture, gently toast slices when ready to serve.

Freezer: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Reheating: To reheat, slice the bread and toast it lightly, or warm it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes. This will bring back its delightful aroma and soft texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Breads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the herb mixture and dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Once ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients and mix them with your prepped dry ingredients, followed by layering in the herbs and cheese as usual. This way, you save precious time on busy weeknights while still enjoying warm, homemade bread that smells just as fantastic as if you made it fresh that day. Don’t forget to let it cool completely before slicing for the best texture!

What to Serve with Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?

Imagine a cozy dinner where every bite is wrapped in warmth and flavor; pairing this quick bread makes the experience even better!

Creamy Tomato Soup: The acidity of the soup beautifully balances the richness of the bread, making each spoonful a comforting delight.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and brightness, enhancing the savory notes of the loaf.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: The buttery, garlicky shrimp brings an extra layer of indulgence, perfect for dipping your warm bread into.
Savory Dip Trio: Serve with a trio of dips like hummus, spinach-artichoke, and tzatziki for a parade of flavors that friends will love at gatherings.
Classic Cheese Platter: Pair with assorted cheeses and cold cuts to complement the flavors in the bread, providing an elegant touch to your table.
Sweet Surprise with Jam: A dollop of fig or onion jam on warm slices offers a delightful contrast of savory and sweet, surprising your palate.
Red Wine: A glass of light red wine rounds out your meal, bringing depth and richness that elevates both the bread and the accompanying dishes.
Buttery Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes add a satisfying crunch, making every bite of your meal a hearty experience.

With these pairing ideas, your Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread will shine bright on any dinner table!

Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread Variations

Feel free to embrace creativity and tailor this delightful quick bread to your tastes!

Cheese Swap: Try Colby or mozzarella for a different flavor profile; mozzarella may yield a milder taste that still melts beautifully.
Herbal Adventure: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme; their unique aromas add a delightful twist to each slice. Alternatively, you can use pesto (½ cup) for a burst of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to your herb mixture for a touch of heat that lights up the bread, making each bite exciting and bold.
Add Texture: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives for an unexpected flavor that enhances moisture and richness, creating a fascinating depth in every slice.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a wonderful alternative, ensuring everyone can join in on the delight of this bread!
Nutty Addition: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that rounds out the softness of the bread.
Buttermilk Swap: Replace the milk with buttermilk for an extra tang that beautifully complements the cheese and herbs, while keeping the bread super moist.
Herb-Infused Oil: Drizzle herb-infused olive oil over the batter before baking; it will deepen the aroma and flavor, creating an enticing crust that pairs well with a hearty soup.

For even more delicious ideas, think about serving this lovely bread warm alongside a comforting bowl of Garlic Cheddar Beer soup or as a side to a fresh salad. Happy baking and experimenting!

Expert Tips for Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter. Doing so can lead to a dense texture rather than the light and fluffy Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread you desire.
Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, choose high-quality cheese and fresh herbs. They truly make a difference in the taste and aroma of your quick bread.
Check Doneness: Always test for doneness with a skewer. If it comes out clean, your loaf is ready; leaving it too long may dry it out.
Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure, making slicing easier.
Experiment Freely: Feel free to substitute herbs or cheeses based on your preference. This versatility makes the Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread a fun recipe to customize!

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Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! For herbs like rosemary and parsley, look for vibrant green leaves with no browning or wilting. Fresh cheese should be firm and creamy without any strange odors. Avoid anything that looks discolored, dried out, or has dark spots.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?
To keep your quick bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to toast slices for the best taste!

Can I freeze Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful quick bread! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my bread turns out dense?
Very common! To avoid a dense texture, be sure not to overmix the batter. It should appear slightly lumpy. Ensure your baking soda (or baking powder) is fresh, as expired leavening agents won’t help the bread rise properly. Keep an eye on the baking time as well; an underbaked loaf can also feel heavy.

Can I make any substitutions for allergies or dietary preferences?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to dairy, try using your favorite non-dairy milk and a dairy-free yogurt substitute. For gluten-free options, swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works well too. Just make sure your baking soda or powder is gluten-free as well.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the batter for a Mediterranean twist. You could also experiment with different cheese varieties like feta or smoked gouda for unique tastes. Don’t hesitate to play with herb combinations; a tablespoon of pesto can really amp up the flavor profile!