Cheesy Quick Bread: A Savory Delight

Cheesy quick bread is the ultimate comfort food that you can make in no time. With its soft, fluffy texture and pockets of melted cheese, this bread is a versatile companion for soups, salads, or a tasty snack all on its own. The best part? You don’t need yeast, and there’s no waiting for dough to rise. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or whip up a last-minute treat for yourself, this cheesy quick bread will not disappoint.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
   • Herb & Cheese Version
   • Spicy Jalapeno Cheese Bread
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Cheesy quick bread is an easy, savory recipe that everyone should have in their repertoire. Unlike traditional bread, which requires time for yeast to rise, this quick bread uses baking powder as a leavening agent, meaning it’s ready in under an hour. This bread is perfect for serving alongside chili, stews, or even with breakfast. With a golden, cheesy crust and a soft interior, this bread delivers comfort with every bite. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using.
3. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until it is well-coated with the flour mixture. This helps prevent the cheese from sinking to the bottom of the bread.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
6. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Cheese Selection: Feel free to use any cheese you like. Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack can add different flavors.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bread tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding chopped green onions or cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.

Variations

Herb & Cheese Version

Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or a mix of thyme, rosemary, and basil to the dry ingredients. This will give the bread a lovely herby aroma and taste that pairs perfectly with soups or stews.

Spicy Jalapeno Cheese Bread

For a spicy kick, add 1-2 finely chopped jalapenos to the batter along with the cheese. This variation brings some heat and makes a great accompaniment to chili.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that this may make the bread a bit denser.

2. How Do I Store Cheesy Quick Bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.

3. Can I Make This Bread Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

4. What Other Cheeses Work Well in This Bread?

You can use almost any cheese that melts well. Monterey Jack, Colby, Gruyere, or a blend of Parmesan and cheddar all work wonderfully.

Cheesy quick bread is an easy and satisfying recipe that adds a comforting touch to any meal. With its delicious combination of cheese and fluffy bread, it’s a simple recipe that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s highly versatile—whether you’re looking for a herby version or something with a bit of heat, this quick bread has got you covered. It’s the perfect recipe for beginner bakers or anyone who wants fresh bread without the hassle of yeast and kneading. Try this cheesy quick bread today, and bring a little warmth and flavor to your kitchen!

Happy Baking!