Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread

This quick bread is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a snack, a side to your meal, or part of your afternoon tea spread. The swirls of fresh herbs and pockets of melted cheese make each slice a delightful experience, while the garlic adds a savory kick that’s simply irresistible. The crumb is soft yet hearty, making it ideal for toasting or eating fresh out of the oven.

Serve this bread warm with a smear of butter for an extra indulgence, or use it to dip into your favorite soups and stews. With no yeast required and a simple preparation, it’s the kind of bread you can whip up whenever you’re craving something comforting and flavorful.

Full Recipe:

  • 7 oz (200g) block of cheese (cheddar or tasty), cut into 3mm (0.1″) thick slices

  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt

  • 2 1/4 cups plain flour (all-purpose)

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt

  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened, full-fat preferred)

  • 3/4 cup milk (full-fat or low-fat)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 3 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed (for the batter)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 21 x 11 x 7 cm loaf tin (8.3 x 4.5 x 2.75″).

  2. Mix all the herb and garlic ingredients in a bowl to form a thick dollop-able mixture. If too dry, add a bit more oil.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the dry ingredients together. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients.

  4. Combine the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing gently until just combined. The batter will be lumpy.

  5. Layer the batter into the loaf tin, dolloping 1/3 of the herb mixture between layers and adding cheese slices in a random pattern, allowing some to stick out.

  6. Repeat layering the batter, herb mixture, and cheese two more times.

  7. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Then cover with foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.

  8. Allow to cool for 5 minutes in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 271 kcal per serving | Servings: 8-10

Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread: A Perfectly Savory Treat

If you’re looking for a savory bread that’s both quick to make and full of flavor, the Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is the perfect choice. This delicious loaf is packed with the rich taste of melted cheese, fragrant herbs, and the irresistible aroma of garlic. What sets this bread apart from traditional yeast breads is its simplicity and ease of preparation. No need to wait for dough to rise or deal with the complexities of yeast; this quick bread comes together in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced home bakers alike.

A Savory Loaf with a Difference

Unlike traditional breads, which rely on yeast to rise, the Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is a straightforward, no-yeast recipe. This bread is based on a muffin-like batter that creates a moist, fluffy crumb. As a result, it’s a great option for people who may not want to wait for the long rising times that come with yeast-based breads. Instead of the chewy texture typically associated with yeast bread, this quick bread is soft with a light, airy feel, complemented by the delicious bursts of cheese and the earthy taste of herbs.

The key to this bread’s success is the combination of ingredients. Cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs are the stars, giving the bread an incredible depth of flavor. The garlic infuses the batter with savory richness, while the fresh rosemary and parsley offer a lively, fragrant note. Meanwhile, the melted cheese creates pockets of gooey goodness throughout the loaf, making every bite irresistible.

Why It’s So Easy to Make

One of the most appealing aspects of this bread is just how easy it is to prepare. Unlike traditional yeast breads, you don’t have to worry about kneading or waiting for the dough to rise. All you need to do is combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold in the cheese and herb mixture, and pop it in the oven. The use of baking soda instead of yeast helps the bread rise quickly without the need for any lengthy proofing times.

The recipe itself is flexible, so you can adjust the types of cheese and herbs based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. For example, sharp cheddar, colby, or tasty cheese work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses. Similarly, you can customize the herb mixture to suit your taste. While rosemary and parsley are a classic combination, thyme, dill, or even sage can be used to add a unique twist.

A Versatile Addition to Your Meal

The Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a side dish with any meal or enjoyed on its own as a snack. It pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or salads, adding a savory and satisfying element to your table. The cheese within the bread makes it rich and hearty, while the garlic and herbs provide a burst of flavor that complements a variety of dishes.

It’s also a great addition to a brunch spread or afternoon tea, offering a deliciously savory alternative to traditional sweet baked goods. Serve it with a pat of butter or a dollop of pesto for an extra indulgence, or toast it lightly for a crispy, golden finish. No matter how you serve it, this bread is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a good, savory snack.

Perfect for Meal Prepping and Leftovers

Another benefit of this quick bread is how well it keeps. While fresh bread is always the best, this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread lasts for several days when stored properly. It can be kept at room temperature for up to five days, and it also freezes well. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply slice the bread, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the toaster or oven to reheat, and it’ll taste just as fresh as when it was first baked.

If you’re someone who loves to meal prep or enjoys having quick snacks on hand, this bread is a fantastic option. It can be baked in advance and used throughout the week for a tasty addition to your meals or for a quick breakfast or lunch.

A Dish to Impress

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner baker, the Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is sure to impress. It’s a great recipe to share with friends and family, and the wonderful smell of garlic and cheese baking will have everyone excited for the first slice. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the delicious, savory flavors makes this bread a standout dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.

The best part is that it’s a recipe that can be made on the fly. Whether you have guests arriving unexpectedly or you’re simply craving something homemade and comforting, this quick bread can be thrown together in no time. No need to worry about rising times or yeast proofing – the whole process is straightforward, and you’ll be enjoying fresh, homemade bread in just over an hour.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try It

If you’re looking for a bread recipe that’s full of flavor but doesn’t take a lot of time or effort, the Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is the perfect solution. It’s easy to make, requires no yeast, and delivers a soft, savory loaf that’s full of cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, enjoying it with a warm bowl of soup, or simply snacking on it throughout the day, this quick bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

With its flexibility, simplicity, and rich flavor, this bread is an excellent addition to any meal. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings with friends and family. If you love cheese, garlic, and herbs, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular baking rotation. Enjoy the irresistible combination of cheesy, garlicky goodness with every slice!

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