Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a comforting and tasty bread that comes together in no time, you’ve landed in the right place! This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is a true gem in my kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss of yeast and rising times. The combination of gooey cheese, fragrant herbs, and aromatic garlic makes each slice a cozy hug on a plate. Whether it’s for family gatherings or simply as an accompaniment to your favorite soup, this bread brings smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No need to wait for dough to rise—this bread comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep!
• Flavor-Packed: With layers of cheese, fresh herbs, and garlic, every bite bursts with delightful flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, it pairs well with so many meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This quick bread is sure to impress everyone at the table; it’s both comforting and sophisticated.
• Make Ahead: Bake it ahead of time, and enjoy it fresh from the oven throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the simple and wholesome ingredients that make this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread so special. You likely have most of them on hand already!

For the Bread

• 200 grams (7 ounces) of cheese (such as cheddar or tasty), sliced into approximately 3 millimeters (0.1 inch) thick pieces
• 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed using a garlic press or finely grated
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon of cooking salt or kosher salt
• 2¼ cups of plain flour (all-purpose flour)
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda (or substitute with 3½ teaspoons of baking powder)
• ¾ teaspoon of cooking salt or kosher salt
• ½ cup of plain yogurt (Greek or regular, full-fat and unsweetened)
• ¾ cup of full-fat milk (low-fat may be substituted)
• 2 large eggs, approximately 50–55 grams (or 2 ounces) each
• 50 grams (3½ tablespoons) of unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 small garlic cloves, crushed or grated

Variations

One thing I adore about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Incorporate Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers for added texture and taste.
• Herb Swaps: Change up the herbs according to your preference—basil, chives, or dill would all work beautifully.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the batter.

How to Make Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This is important because a properly heated oven helps your quick bread rise perfectly without being dense. Don’t forget to grease your loaf pan and line it with baking paper so that your bread will slide out easily once baked!

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped rosemary, parsley, dried oregano, thyme, crushed garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and cooking salt. Mixing these ingredients until they form a dollop-able consistency enhances their flavor infusion into the bread. This herb mixture is where much of the savory goodness comes from!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda (or baking powder), and salt. This step ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour. It’s crucial for achieving that lovely rise during baking!

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, milk, eggs, melted butter, olive oil, and additional crushed garlic until smooth. Blending these wet ingredients well not only adds moisture but also creates a rich base for your quick bread.

Step 5: Create Your Batter

Make a well in the center of your dry mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Gently mix everything until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough bread. We want our quick bread light and fluffy!

Step 6: Layer It Up!

Pour one-third of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Then dollop one-third of that herb mixture across the top and create gentle swirls with a knife. Add one-third of those delicious cheese slices into this layer too! Repeat this layering process two more times—trust me; it looks rustic and delightful!

Step 7: Bake It Just Right

Pop your loaf into the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until golden brown on top. After that initial bake time, cover it with aluminum foil to allow it to cook through without burning on top—total baking time should be around 50 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked through (test with a skewer!), let it cool in the pan for five minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain moisture within each piece—perfect for enjoying warm!

Now that you know how easy it is to whip up this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread at home—what are you waiting for? Let’s get baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

Making this delightful cheese, herb, and garlic quick bread is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right cheese: Opt for cheeses that melt well, like cheddar or gouda. This will create those deliciously gooey pockets of cheese throughout the bread.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap in your favorite fresh herbs or even use dried ones if fresh isn’t available. This bread is versatile and can take on many flavor profiles!
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or skewer to test if the bread is cooked through. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go; if there’s batter on it, give it a little more time in the oven.
• Let it cool: Patience pays off! Allowing the bread to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner cuts.

How to Serve Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

This quick bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Whether enjoyed warm as a snack or as part of a meal, here are some ideas to make your presentation shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped rosemary or parsley on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors of the herbs.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the bread and provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while their natural sweetness balances out the savory bread.
• Soup: Pair your quick bread with a comforting bowl of tomato or vegetable soup for a hearty meal that warms both body and soul.
• Hummus and Veggies: Serve with homemade or store-bought hummus alongside crunchy veggies for dipping—perfect for an appetizer spread!

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions, and watch as your Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread becomes the star of any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing, freezing, and reheating your delicious bread.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual portions before freezing for convenience.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature or microwave for 30 seconds.
• For a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and warm the slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use different herbs in Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like basil, chives, or thyme to customize the flavor of your quick bread.

How long will Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread last?

When stored properly, this quick bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For best results, wrap it well!

Can I substitute the cheese in Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?

Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer—try mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for something tangier. Just ensure it’s not too soft!

Is there a gluten-free version of Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Just check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread as much as I do! It’s such a comforting addition to any meal or even enjoyed on its own with some butter. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your cheese and herb combinations. Happy baking!