Kate Walton
Golden, crusty, and bursting with savory flavor, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a no-fuss, deeply satisfying loaf that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. Each slice is layered with gooey cheese and speckled with fresh herbs, making it the perfect companion to soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own warm from the oven.
The beauty of this quick bread is that it requires no yeast or kneading, and comes together in just one bowl. It’s a delightful option for a last-minute side dish or a savory snack, and easily adaptable with your favorite herbs or cheese varieties. Whether you’re hosting brunch or looking for a cozy bake to share, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.
What Kind of Cheese and Herbs Work Best?
The best part of this recipe is its flexibility. Sharp cheddar offers a bold richness, while mozzarella melts beautifully for gooey texture. You can even add a sprinkle of parmesan for a salty edge. As for herbs, fresh parsley brings a grassy brightness, while thyme or rosemary add earthy depth. Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand—this bread loves customization.
Ingredients for the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
- All-Purpose Flour: The structural base that holds all the magic together.
- Baking Powder: Essential for lift and that fluffy, tender crumb.
- Salt & Black Pepper: These enhance the flavor of both the cheese and the herbs.
- Milk: Adds moisture and softness.
- Eggs: Help bind everything into a cohesive loaf.
- Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds richness and gives the crust a golden finish.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both work wonderfully here.
- Fresh Chopped Herbs: Parsley, rosemary, thyme—pick your favorites or use a blend.
How To Make the Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. This ensures even distribution of your leavening agent.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the milk and olive oil or melted butter until well combined.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice while slightly warm for melty cheese bites or let it cool completely for cleaner slices.
How to Serve and Store Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
This bread is divine when served slightly warm with a pat of butter. It pairs beautifully with soups like creamy tomato or hearty stews and is fantastic alongside scrambled eggs or a green salad.
To store, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and reheat in a toaster oven when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes! Use one-third the amount since dried herbs are more potent. For example, 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley = 1 teaspoon dried.
What type of pan works best?
A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan is ideal. You can also use mini loaf pans, just reduce the baking time.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and olive oil instead of butter.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
Why is my bread dense?
Be sure not to overmix the batter and measure your flour properly by spooning and leveling.
Want More Savory Bread Ideas?
If you love this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread, you’ll definitely want to explore these delicious options next:
- Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe for a bold, buttery loaf with pull-apart texture.
- Zucchini Frittata that pairs beautifully with a slice of this bread.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as a perfect companion side.
- Chicken Gnocchi Soup served with a slice for dipping.
- Easy Japchae if you’re in the mood for something savory and noodle-y to pair.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it whenever the craving hits.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go bold with rosemary or mellow with mozzarella? Maybe you tossed in something unexpected?
I love seeing the twists you add. Questions or tips welcome—let’s keep sharing the kitchen magic.
👉 More daily recipes on my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf (approx. 10 slices)
Description
A golden, savory loaf brimming with melted cheese and fresh herbs, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is your go-to side for soups, salads, or brunches. Quick to prepare and utterly comforting, it’s everything you want from a homemade bake—without the wait.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or mix)
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with milk and olive oil or melted butter.
- Stir wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in shredded cheese and chopped herbs evenly.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Slice and enjoy warm or cooled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
