If you are looking for a delightful, cheesy treat that comes together quickly and satisfies every craving, this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is the answer. It combines the sharp richness of cheddar with a tender, moist crumb that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside your favorite meals. This bread is super easy to whip up, requires pantry-friendly ingredients, and bakes into a golden loaf that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing bread that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet wonderful ingredients that each play a key role in making your cheddar cheese quick bread perfect. From the all-purpose flour which forms the base, to the sharp cheddar that gives the bread its signature flavor and color, every item enhances the bread’s texture and taste.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure and softness when mixed correctly.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder: Your leavening agent to ensure the bread rises and becomes delightfully fluffy.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a delicate touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses a mild, comforting garlic note, elevating the savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings depth to the bread.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that provides richness, sharpness, and a beautiful golden melt.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture to keep the bread tender and soft.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients for stability and a lovely crumb structure.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds a buttery richness and keeps the bread moist.
How to Make Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready for even baking as soon as your batter is mixed. Grease or spray a loaf pan to prevent sticking and help the bread come out perfectly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Coating the cheese in the flour mixture helps to keep it evenly distributed throughout the bread instead of sinking to the bottom.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter together until smooth. These wet ingredients add moisture and richness that will balance the dry mix perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here—overworking the batter can make your bread dense instead of light and tender.
Step 5: Pour Batter and Bake
Transfer your batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top gently. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell of baking cheddar will fill your kitchen and have you counting down the minutes!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. Cooling it slightly helps the bread firm up so it slices neatly without falling apart. Then slice it up and get ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a pat of herb-infused butter or a light spread of cream cheese elevate this bread wonderfully. Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley on top add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Side Dishes
This cheddar bread pairs beautifully with warm soups such as tomato bisque or creamy potato soup. It also makes an excellent companion to hearty salads or as a side to your favorite roasted meats.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing and toasting the bread, then topping it with avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a savory snack. You can also cut it into cubes and use it as flavorful croutons in salads or soups. For a party, serve mini slices with a variety of dips like spinach artichoke or salsa.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for 2 to 3 days, perfect for quick breakfasts or afternoon snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Slice before freezing if you prefer grab-and-go portions.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, thaw frozen slices at room temperature and warm them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F until heated through. This brings back that fresh-baked feel and keeps the cheese wonderfully melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for this recipe, you can try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoked cheese for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
Is this bread vegan or gluten-free?
This recipe is not vegan or gluten-free as is, due to eggs, dairy, and wheat flour. However, there are substitutions you could explore, such as plant-based milk and egg replacers, plus gluten-free flour blends to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I add herbs or spices?
Definitely. Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives complement the cheddar beautifully. You can also experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for some heat.
Why shouldn’t I overmix the batter?
Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can make the bread denser and tougher instead of light and tender. Stir just until ingredients are combined for the best texture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. The aroma and slight springiness to touch also signal it’s ready.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves bold flavor combined with quick, easy baking. It’s a dependable recipe that will make you feel like a kitchen rockstar every time you make it. Give it a try, share slices with loved ones, and watch it become a well-loved favorite in your home too!
Print
Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a deliciously savory loaf perfect for a quick snack or a comforting side. Made with sharp cheddar, a touch of garlic powder, and simple pantry staples, this bread combines a tender crumb with a cheesy, flavorful punch. Ready in under an hour, it’s an easy and satisfying homemade bread that doesn’t require any yeast or rising time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it well or spraying it with a non-stick cooking spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt until well combined. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly and set the dry mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until thoroughly combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the bread stays tender and light.
- Pour into Pan: Spoon or pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan, spreading the surface smooth.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and set the pan on a wire rack. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan to cool completely on the rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped fresh herbs like chives or thyme to the batter.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
- If you like a crustier top, brush the batter with a little melted butter before baking.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well; slice and freeze portions individually for quick snacks.
