Herb and Cheese Quick Bread
Herb and Cheese Quick Bread is a soft, savory loaf packed with melted cheddar, nutty Parmesan, and fresh herbs baked into a golden, fluffy bread. Unlike traditional yeast breads, this one comes together quickly with baking powder and baking soda, meaning no rising time is needed. It’s rich, aromatic, and perfect served warm with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack. Every slice is buttery, cheesy, and full of herb flavor, making it a comforting homemade favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 55–60 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
All-purpose flour: 2 cups
Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
Baking soda: ½ teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Sugar: 1 tablespoon (optional, helps browning)
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Wet Ingredients
Buttermilk: 1 cup (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice)
Eggs: 2 large
Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, melted and cooled
Cheese & Herbs
Cheddar cheese: 1 to 1 ½ cups, shredded (sharp preferred)
Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, grated
Fresh herbs: 2 to 4 tablespoons finely chopped (parsley, thyme, rosemary mix)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and garlic powder until well combined.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in buttermilk and melted butter until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh herbs. Mix until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface for a golden, cheesy crust.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Do not overmix the batter or the bread will turn dense instead of soft and fluffy.
Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor and better melt.
Fresh herbs give better aroma, but dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts.
Make sure butter is cooled before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs.
Check doneness with a toothpick in the center of the loaf.
Let the bread rest before slicing so it holds its shape.
For extra moisture, do not overbake even if the top looks done early.
Line the pan with parchment for easy removal and clean slicing.
Grate cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded for better melting.
Add cheese on top just before baking for a crisp, golden crust.
Variations
Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
Use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder, stretchy texture.
Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy herb bread version.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy Mediterranean flavor.
Use rosemary and thyme only for a more rustic herbal profile.
Add caramelized onions for sweetness and depth.
Replace buttermilk with yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.
Add spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Use whole wheat flour for a healthier, denser loaf.
Add a drizzle of garlic butter on top after baking for richness.
Q&A
Can I make this bread without buttermilk?
Yes, mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
Why is my bread dense?
Overmixing the batter or old baking powder can cause this.
Can I freeze herb and cheese bread?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat it?
Warm slices in the oven or toaster for best texture.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use smaller quantities as dried herbs are stronger.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, bake in muffin tins for 18–22 minutes.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is best, but blends also work well.
Why is my top not browning?
Ensure oven is fully preheated and use Parmesan on top.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
How long does it stay fresh?
It stays fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
Nutrition
(Approximate per slice)
Calories: 220–280
Protein: 8–10g
Carbohydrates: 22–28g
Fat: 12–15g
Fiber: 1–2g
This bread provides a good balance of carbs, fats, and protein, with calcium and flavor from the cheese and herbs.
Conclusion
Herb and Cheese Quick Bread is a warm, flavorful, and easy-to-make loaf that brings comfort to any meal. With its soft crumb, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs, it’s perfect for pairing with soups or enjoying on its own. Simple, fast, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.