Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Bread for Any Occasion
If you’re craving a warm, savory loaf of homemade bread that is easy to make and bursting with flavor, then this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is the perfect recipe for you! With just a handful of simple ingredients, this bread comes together quickly and requires no yeast or rising time, making it the ideal choice for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, enjoying a slice with soup, or having it as a snack, this cheddar cheese bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
This quick bread is rich, cheesy, and soft, with just the right balance of savory flavors. The combination of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and a touch of salt creates a mouthwatering bread that pairs perfectly with your favorite soups, stews, or even as a standalone snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! The baking powder helps it rise without the need for any yeast, so there’s no waiting around for the dough to rise—just mix the ingredients, pour them into a loaf pan, and bake!
Benefits of Quick Bread
Quick breads, such as this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread, are ideal for busy home bakers. They don’t require the kneading and long rising time associated with traditional yeast breads. The beauty of quick bread lies in its simplicity. It uses baking powder as a leavening agent, which makes it rise quickly and effortlessly.
Another fantastic feature of this recipe is its versatility. While the cheddar cheese and garlic provide a fantastic flavor base, you can easily customize this bread by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even mixing in cooked bacon bits for an extra savory twist.
Ingredients for Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread
To make this easy Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of your bread dough, all-purpose flour is perfect for quick breads and gives the bread a light, fluffy texture.
4 teaspoons baking powder – This leavening agent helps the bread rise, creating a light, fluffy loaf without the need for yeast.
1 tablespoon sugar – Just a little sweetness to balance out the savory ingredients.
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the cheese.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the bread and the cheddar cheese.
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – This is the star of the recipe! The cheddar cheese melts into the bread, making each bite irresistibly cheesy and flavorful.
1 cup milk – The liquid that helps bring the bread dough together.
1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients and gives the bread a richer texture.
How to Make Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Follow these easy steps to make your Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure your bread comes out easily 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. This ensures that all of the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Cheddar Cheese
Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry ingredients. This step helps prevent the cheese from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and the egg until well combined. The milk adds moisture to the bread, while the egg acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Step 5: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser texture. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
Step 6: Transfer the Batter to the Pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve!
Tips for Perfect Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded cheese and gives a creamier texture. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, which may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your bread.
Customize Your Bread: Add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley to enhance the flavor profile. For extra richness, try stirring in a tablespoon of melted butter into the batter before baking.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy loaf.
Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Store Properly: Leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag.
How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread
This quick bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for enjoying your freshly baked loaf:
With Soup or Chili: The rich, cheesy flavor of the bread pairs beautifully with hot, comforting bowls of soup, chili, or stew.
As a Snack: Enjoy a warm slice of this cheddar bread on its own for a simple snack.
With Dips: Serve it alongside creamy dips like ranch, sour cream, or onion dip for an appetizer at parties.
For Breakfast: Toast a slice and spread some butter or your favorite jam for a delicious start to your day.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners
If you’re new to baking, this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a great place to start. The ingredients are simple, the process is straightforward, and you don’t have to worry about kneading or waiting for the dough to rise. Plus, the result is a delicious loaf of bread that will impress your friends and family, even if you’ve never baked bread before!
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves fresh, homemade bread without all the fuss. With its rich flavor, soft texture, and quick preparation, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a delicious outcome every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a warm loaf of cheddar cheese bread that will fill your home with the irresistible smell of baking.
By following these simple steps, you can create a savory and satisfying loaf of Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread that will become a staple in your home. Happy baking!