Quick Overview
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make addition to your meals, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the perfect choice. It combines fresh herbs and creamy cheese into a fluffy loaf that complements any dish or can be enjoyed on its own. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying enough to impress experienced bakers. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have warm, aromatic bread ready in no time.
Ingredient Breakdown
Flour
Use 2 cups of all-purpose flour as the base of your quick bread. This provides the structure necessary for the loaf while allowing it to rise nicely during baking.
Baking Powder
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of baking powder. This ingredient acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread become light and airy.
Salt
Add 1 teaspoon of salt for flavor. Salt enhances all other flavors in the recipe and balances the richness of the cheese.
Cheese
Utilize 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or gouda). The melted cheese adds creaminess and depth to the flavor profile of the bread.
Fresh Herbs
Include ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme). These herbs bring freshness and aromatic qualities that elevate the loaf.
Milk
Pour in ¾ cup of milk to create moisture. Milk helps bind all ingredients together while contributing to a soft texture.
Eggs
Add 1 large egg for binding. The egg enhances richness and helps hold the ingredients together during baking.
Step By Step Recipe: Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your bread bakes evenly from start to finish.
Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the bread from sticking to the sides once baked, making it easier to remove when it’s ready.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together milk and egg until well blended. Ensure there are no lumps so that your wet mixture incorporates smoothly into your dry ingredients later.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add wet ingredients into dry ingredients while stirring gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry streaks visible.
Fold in Cheese and Herbs
Gently fold in shredded cheese and chopped herbs into the batter using a spatula. This ensures even distribution without deflating your batter too much.
Pour Batter into Pan
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so that it bakes evenly without any peaks or hollows.
Bake in Preheated Oven
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when fully baked.
Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for best texture.
Serving and Storing Tips
Best Serving Suggestions
Serve slices warm with butter or alongside soups and salads. This herb & cheese quick bread pairs wonderfully with various dishes or can be enjoyed alone as a tasty snack.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it.
Reheating Tips
To reheat leftover slices, place them in a toaster oven or microwave briefly until warm. For added enjoyment, spread some butter on top before reheating for extra flavor!
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen! It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying some homemade goodness at home!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is overmixing the batter. When you mix too much, you develop gluten, which can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until the ingredients combine for a perfect texture.
Another mistake is using stale herbs or cheese. Fresh ingredients bring vibrant flavors that elevate your quick bread. Stale herbs lose their potency, while old cheese may not melt properly or could impart an unpleasant taste.
Failing to preheat the oven is another issue. If your oven isn’t hot enough when you put in the dough, it can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread rises beautifully.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin your recipe. Baking is a science, and even slight variations in flour or liquid can significantly affect the final product. Use proper measuring tools for best results.
Finally, skipping the resting time after mixing can negatively impact flavor development. Allowing the batter to rest lets the flavors meld together, resulting in a tastier Herb & Cheese Quick Bread.
Tips and tricks
To make delicious Herb & Cheese Quick Bread, start by selecting high-quality cheese and fresh herbs. Aged cheeses like sharp cheddar or nutty Gruyère work well, while herbs such as rosemary or thyme add aromatic depth. Experiment with combinations based on your preference for flavor intensity.
Don’t forget to incorporate some tangy elements into your quick bread. Adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or yogurt can enhance flavors and contribute moisture without making the bread overly wet. This subtle acidity balances richness from cheese and enriches overall taste.
For extra texture and nutrition, consider adding seeds or nuts to your dough. Ingredients like sunflower seeds or walnuts provide crunchiness and a healthy dose of fats. Just remember to chop them coarsely so they blend well with the other components of your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread.
Keep an eye on baking time! Ovens can vary significantly, so start checking your quick bread five minutes before the suggested time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done. This ensures you avoid overbaking, which dries out your bread.
Lastly, store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness. Wrap your cooled Herb & Cheese Quick Bread in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually for easy access later on.
Suggestions for Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
To enhance your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread experience, consider pairing it with flavorful dips or spreads. A garlic-infused olive oil or a spicy tomato chutney complements the richness of the cheese while adding new dimensions to each bite.
Add variety by experimenting with different types of flour in your recipe. Whole wheat flour lends a nuttier flavor profile and adds fiber compared to all-purpose flour. Mixing flours creates unique tastes that keep things interesting each time you bake.
Serving this bread warm straight from the oven elevates its appeal significantly. The melted cheese offers irresistible gooeyness that enhances both aroma and taste—perfect for impressing guests during gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Consider making mini loaves instead of one large loaf for individual servings at events or lunches. Mini loaves bake faster than larger ones, allowing for quick enjoyment of this delightful treat without sacrificing quality.
Finally, topping with fresh herbs before baking gives an appealing look while reinforcing flavor elements present in the bread itself. Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled atop creates an inviting appearance that draws people in at first glance.
FAQs
What types of cheese work best in Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?
When choosing cheese for your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread, opt for varieties that melt well such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère. Sharp cheddar adds rich flavor while mozzarella provides creaminess without overpowering other ingredients. You can also mix different cheeses for a more complex taste; just ensure they complement each other well in terms of flavor profiles.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable; however, adjust quantities accordingly since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor than fresh ones. Generally speaking, one tablespoon of fresh herbs equates to about one teaspoon of dried herbs due to their potency differences in seasoning dishes like Herb & Cheese Quick Bread effectively without overwhelming taste buds.
How do I prevent my quick bread from becoming dense?
To avoid dense quick bread, take care not to overmix once you combine wet and dry ingredients; stir gently just until everything comes together smoothly—this keeps gluten activation at bay! Additionally ensuring proper ingredient measurements contributes greatly towards achieving optimal results each time you bake this delicious treat at home!
Can I add vegetables to my Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?
Absolutely! Incorporating finely chopped vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers provides added nutrition along with delightful textures within each bite while complementing existing flavors found throughout the dish naturally! Be sure not too overload them though—too many extra additions may adversely affect overall consistency during baking process!
How should I store leftover quick bread?
To store leftover Herb & Cheese Quick Bread properly wrap it tightly in plastic wrap then place inside an airtight container at room temperature where it will remain fresh up until three days later! Alternatively freeze individual slices wrapped securely which allows easy access whenever cravings strike!
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe into a gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends available on market today specifically designed for baking purposes! Be sure also check labels carefully before purchasing any products ensuring they meet dietary needs accordingly without compromising desired results overall!
Summary
In summary, creating the perfect Herb & Cheese Quick Bread involves avoiding common mistakes such as overmixing and using stale ingredients. Utilize quality tips like incorporating tangy elements and experimenting with various flours for unique flavors and textures. Pairing this delightful dish with flavored dips enhances its appeal further while proper storage maintains freshness post-baking sessions too! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve crafted something truly special tailored just right according personal preferences every step along way!
Print
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a savory delight, perfect for brunch or as a side with soups and salads. With fresh herbs and melted cheese, it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or basil)
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs until well combined.
4. In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and melted butter.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
6. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
This bread can be customized by adding different types of cheese or herbs according to your preference. Serve warm for best flavor!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 6g
Keywords: quick bread, herb bread, cheese bread, baking