There’s something magical about baking bread from scratch—but let’s be honest, not all of us have the time (or patience) for yeast and rising dough. That’s why I’m obsessed with this Cheesy Herb Quick Bread. It’s rich, savory, and packed with melty cheese and fresh herbs, creating a golden, rustic loaf that smells like a bakery and tastes like comfort in every bite.
From the crunchy top crust to the soft, cheesy center, this bread is my go-to for cozy weekends, last-minute dinner pairings, or even as a gift from the kitchen. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll want to bake it again and again. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’ve ever been intimidated by homemade bread, this one is a game-changer. No yeast, no rising time—just stir, pour, and bake.
When I first made this Cheesy Herb Quick Bread for a family potluck, it vanished before I could grab a second slice. Even my picky cousin who “doesn’t like herbs” asked for the recipe. It’s hearty enough to pair with soup, fresh enough for brunch, and customizable with whatever cheeses or herbs you’ve got on hand.
You’ll love how forgiving this recipe is. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, it always turns out beautifully. Plus, the aroma will transform your kitchen into something special.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour (2 cups) – The sturdy base that holds everything together. You can sub with half whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
- Baking powder (1 tbsp) – Gives the bread its quick rise and soft crumb.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances every other flavor.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds just the right touch of warmth.
Cheese & Herbs
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups shredded) – Melts beautifully and adds a savory punch. Try Gruyère or Monterey Jack as alternates.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Bright and herby. Can be swapped with chives, dill, or rosemary.
- Fresh thyme (1 tsp) – Earthy, fragrant, and essential. Dried herbs work too, just use half the amount.
Wet Ingredients
- Milk (1 cup whole or 2%) – Keeps the bread moist. Nondairy milk like oat or almond also works.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup) – Adds richness and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
- Egg (1 large) – Binds and helps create a golden crust.
- Olive oil or melted butter (1/4 cup) – Moisture plus flavor. Butter gives it a deeper richness.
How to Make Cheesy Herb Quick Bread
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the shredded cheese and chopped herbs, tossing lightly to coat—this helps keep them evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, sour cream, egg, and olive oil (or melted butter) until smooth.
4. Bring It Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—it’s okay if it’s a little lumpy.
5. Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Slice
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice when warm for maximum melty cheese delight, or let it cool completely for clean slices.
Creative Variations
- Garlic Cheddar Herb Bread – Add 2 cloves minced garlic and swap parsley for chives.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Feta – Replace cheddar with feta and add 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Jalapeño Cheddar – Add 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Rosemary Parmesan – Use Parmesan instead of cheddar and fresh rosemary instead of thyme.
- Autumn Harvest – Mix in roasted butternut squash cubes and sage.
- Italian-Inspired – Add oregano, basil, and mozzarella; serve with marinara on the side.
Cheesy Herb Quick Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cheese & Herbs:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Gruyère, Monterey Jack
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives, dill
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk or oat/almond milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded cheese and herbs to coat.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, sour cream, egg, and oil until smooth.
Combine & Stir:
- Pour wet into dry ingredients. Stir just until moistened—don’t overmix.
Bake:
- Spoon batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool & Slice:
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully before slicing.
Notes
-
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses (cheddar + parmesan = amazing!).
-
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temp, or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
-
Make it gluten-free:
Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Nutrition
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Bake the bread, cool it completely, and wrap tightly. It stays fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
How do I reheat it? Slice and toast for a crisp crust, or wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
Can I freeze it? Absolutely. Wrap in plastic wrap and foil. It keeps well frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp or reheat in the oven.
How do I make it gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for best results.
Can I make it dairy-free? Yes—use nondairy milk, dairy-free cheese, and vegan yogurt or sour cream alternatives.
Why is my bread crumbly? This usually means it was overbaked or too much flour was added. Weigh your flour if possible for accuracy.
Bringing It All Together
This Cheesy Herb Quick Bread has become a staple in my kitchen—not just because it’s easy, but because it always delivers. I remember bringing a still-warm loaf to my neighbor’s potluck last fall, and everyone assumed it came from a fancy bakery.
There’s beauty in recipes like this that bridge comfort and creativity. Whether you stick to cheddar and parsley or go wild with roasted garlic and gouda, this is your canvas.
So go ahead—make it, share it, and savor it. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your table will be warmer, and your heart just a little fuller.
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