Introduction
Imagine the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, enticing your senses and making your mouth water. Now, imagine that bread infused with the savory flavors of herbs and cheese, creating a tantalizing combination that will leave you craving for more. That’s exactly what you get with this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe.
In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making this delectable bread, highlighting its unique features, sharing practical cooking tips, and offering variations and substitutions to suit different dietary preferences. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you with a warm loaf of bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe is a must-try:
1. Easy and Quick: Unlike traditional yeast-based bread recipes that require hours of rising time, this quick bread comes together in no time. No need to wait for the dough to rise – simply mix, bake, and enjoy!
2. Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of herbs and cheese adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe by experimenting with different herbs and cheese varieties.
3. Perfect Texture: This quick bread has a soft and tender crumb, with a slightly crispy crust. It’s the ideal balance of textures that will keep you coming back for more.
4. Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the satisfaction of baking your own bread from scratch. With this recipe, you can enjoy the taste and aroma of freshly baked bread without the need for fancy equipment or advanced baking skills.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
– 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or basil), finely chopped
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
Optional ingredient substitutions:
– You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.
– Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your own Herb & Cheese Quick Bread:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped fresh herbs, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and beaten egg.
6. Pour the milk and egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.
7. Transfer the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Expert Tips for Success:
– Make sure your butter is cold when cutting it into the flour mixture. This will help create a flaky texture in the bread.
– Don’t overmix the batter. Stirring until just combined will ensure a tender and fluffy bread.
– Feel free to add additional seasonings or spices to the batter, such as garlic powder or dried herbs, for extra flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
While this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread recipe is already delicious as is, you can get creative and customize it to suit your taste preferences:
– Vegetarian version: If you’re vegetarian, you can omit the cheese or use a vegetarian cheese alternative.
– Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this bread.
– Spicy twist: Add some heat to your bread by incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the batter.
– Italian-inspired: Swap the fresh herbs with a combination of dried Italian herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme, to give your bread an Italian flair.
Serving Suggestions
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
– Serve it warm as a standalone snack or appetizer.
– Slice it and use it as a base for sandwiches or toast.
– Pair it with a hearty soup or salad for a satisfying meal.
– Enjoy it alongside your favorite pasta or Italian dishes.
Whatever way you choose to serve it, this bread is sure to impress your family and friends with its delightful flavors and homemade goodness.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you may have about making this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread:
1. Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, you can freeze this bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven before serving.
2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe.
3. Can I make this bread without eggs?
Yes, you can make this bread without eggs by using a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the recipe.
Final Thoughts
With its irresistible combination of herbs and cheese, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers outstanding results every time.
Baking your own bread is not only rewarding but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. So, why not give this recipe a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of homemade bread. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and let us know how this recipe turned out for you!
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
Enjoy the delightful aroma and savory flavors of herbs and cheese in this easy-to-make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread. With a perfect balance of textures and homemade goodness, this bread is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or basil), finely chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Cut cold cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in shredded cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
- Whisk together milk and beaten egg in a separate bowl.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
- Transfer the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
