If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful bread that comes together quickly and easily, this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is an absolute game changer. Bursting with sharp cheddar and just the right amount of herbs and seasoning, it’s the kind of bread that turns any meal into something special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe delivers a moist, tender crumb with a golden crust that’s perfect warm from the oven. It’s true comfort food that’s simple enough for a weeknight and impressive enough when guests arrive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in this quick bread. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the crumb, to the sharp cheddar that makes every bite savory and rich, these ingredients work together seamlessly.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives your bread structure and the ideal texture.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Essential for a light, fluffy rise without waiting for yeast.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Helps balance acidity and contributes to a tender crumb.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the savory flavors and brings harmony to the bread.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle depth and aroma that complements the cheese.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that rich, tangy bite.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Provides moisture and a slight tang, keeping the bread tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Adds moistness and a subtle buttery flavor.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional): Brings a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously or line it with parchment paper to make sure your bread will release easily after baking. This small prep step ensures your bread bakes evenly and pops right out for slicing.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Mixing these well up front helps distribute the leavening agents evenly for a consistent rise. Next, stir in your shredded cheddar cheese, making sure every bit gets coated with flour. This clever trick keeps the cheese from sinking and clumping at the bottom of your loaf.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted, slightly cooled butter until smooth. These wet ingredients bring moisture and richness, which transforms the dry mix into a silky batter full of promise.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, then stir gently just until they’re combined. Be careful not to overmix here — overworking the batter can lead to a tougher bread instead of a tender one. If you’re adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley, fold them in at this point for bursts of color and flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell filling your kitchen is going to be irresistible!
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set up, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the structure to firm up, making slicing easier and cleaner.
How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple pat of butter melted on warm slices of this cheddar bread is heavenly, but you can also sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs on top just before serving to add extra visual appeal and flavor.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups like tomato bisque or creamy potato leek. It also complements a fresh green salad or a vibrant bowl of chili perfectly, so you can create a well-rounded, cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into thick slices and toast lightly, then top with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a modern twist. Or try serving warm cheddar bread cubes alongside a fondue pot for dipping – it’s a fun way to share its cheesy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This quick bread stays fresh when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. It’s perfect for enjoying over a couple of days without losing that delightful softness.
Freezing
For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top freezer bag. This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe freezes beautifully and can be kept for up to 2 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or toast them straight from frozen.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling, warm your slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a minute or two. Adding a small pat of butter while reheating elevates the flavor and restores moisture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives this bread its iconic flavor, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a new twist.
Do I need to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk adds tenderness and a subtle tang, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Can I add other mix-ins besides herbs?
Of course. Cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes mix well with the cheddar and add a savory punch to the bread.
What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from sinking?
Coating the shredded cheese lightly in flour before folding it into the batter keeps it from sinking to the bottom during baking, ensuring every slice has cheesy goodness throughout.
Is this bread gluten-free friendly?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you could try a blend of gluten-free flours, but the texture might vary.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is one of those delightful kitchen finds that brings people together. It’s simple, satisfying, and brimming with flavor in every bite. I encourage you to give it a try soon — homemade cheese bread this easy and delicious is a true treat that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy cheddar cheese bread that combines sharp cheddar with a simple batter for a savory, flavorful loaf perfect for any meal or snack. This no-yeast bread features a moist texture with the option to add herbs or extras for customization.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder if using. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring it is evenly coated with the flour mixture to avoid clumping.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, and the melted unsalted butter until fully combined.
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Fold in the chopped fresh herbs if using.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it and transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Best served warm with a pat of butter for enhanced flavor.
- Add cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
- You can freeze the bread for up to 2 months for longer storage.
