Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe

If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and packed with fresh herbs, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is absolutely your new best friend in the kitchen. I love how effortlessly it comes together, thanks to simple pantry staples and fresh garden herbs, giving you that perfect balance of savory and aromatic in every bite. Whether you need a last-minute side for dinner or a tasty snack to enjoy with coffee, this bread always hits the spot.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how flavorful it was without any complicated steps. It’s quicker than traditional yeast breads since it uses baking powder, so you don’t have to wait around for the dough to rise. Plus, the combination of cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary creates a comforting, rustic loaf that’s just begging to be sliced and shared.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work in harmony to give you a moist, tender crumb with beautifully balanced flavors. If you can, opt for fresh herbs and sharp cheddar—they really make all the difference in this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe.

• All-purpose flour: The base for the bread, providing structure without overpowering the other flavors.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory herbs and cheese.
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps this quick bread rise perfectly without yeast.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors—you don’t want to skip this!
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Use a sharp or extra sharp variety for an extra flavor punch.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, slightly peppery note that complements the cheese well.
• Fresh thyme: A wonderfully earthy, lemony herb that brings depth to the loaf.
• Fresh rosemary: Pungent and piney, rosemary pairs beautifully with cheddar and thyme.
• Whole milk: Gives the bread moisture and richness.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds tenderness and a subtle buttery flavor.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add structure for a tender crumb.

Variations

I love how versatile this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is—you can easily tweak it to match your pantry or dietary needs. I’ve tried adding different cheeses and herbs depending on the season, and each version brings something new to the table.

• Cheese Swap: Sometimes, I swap cheddar for feta or gouda, which gives a creamier or smokier dimension.
• Herb Mix-Up: In cooler months, I add sage or oregano for a warming flavor twist.
• Gluten-Free: I’ve experimented using a gluten-free flour blend with good success—just keep the same ratio.
• Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can really brighten things up if you like a little heat.

How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep your pan and oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which ensures it’s ready for the bread right when you are. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan generously with butter or nonstick spray—this little step guarantees your bread will slip out cleanly once baked, preventing any frustrating sticking.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients and herbs

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add your shredded cheddar and fresh herbs—parsley, thyme, and rosemary—and stir until everything is evenly distributed. I like to use fresh herbs here because they give a bright, fresh taste that dried just can’t replicate.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, and eggs together until fully combined. Make sure the butter’s not hot or you could cook the eggs by accident—warm is perfect. This mix will add richness and moisture that keeps the bread tender.

Step 4: Bring wet and dry together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula. The key here is to mix until just combined—overmixing will make the bread tough, and nobody wants that! It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.

Step 5: Bake until golden and delicious

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Pop it in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. I usually start checking at 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Step 6: Cool and enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this lets it firm up a bit so it slices easily. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or slice warm if you just can’t wait. I love a warm slice with melted butter on top, trust me, you’re in for a treat.

How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little extra fresh chopped parsley or thyme on top right before serving—it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that really complements the bread. Sometimes, a light brush of melted butter right out of the oven makes it irresistibly shiny and flavorful.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of tomato soup or your favorite chili—perfect for cozy nights. It also goes well alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a simple lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch gathering, I’ve served slices of this bread topped with a smear of herbed cream cheese and smoked salmon—trust me, your guests will be swooning. You can also cut it into cubes and toast for flavorful croutons in salads or soups.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days. It stays soft and flavorful, but I’d recommend eating it quickly because freshness is key with this kind of bread.

Freezing

Freezing this bread works wonderfully—just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, or pop slices into freezer bags. When you want some, let it thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven or toaster for best texture.

Reheating

I like reheating slices in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the edges while keeping the inside tender. You can also microwave briefly, but be careful not to overdo it so it doesn’t get chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe because it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly comforting and delicious in no time. It’s become my secret weapon for easy entertaining and cozy family meals, and I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly this bread becomes a household favorite!

Print