Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a savory, cheesy delight that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish, a snack, or even as the base for sandwiches, this bread is packed with bold flavor and fluffy texture. Best of all, you don’t need yeast or long proofing times—this quick bread is ready in under an hour!
Why This Recipe Works
No Yeast Needed: Using baking powder as the leavening agent eliminates the need for proofing, making it quick and simple.
Cheesy Goodness: Shredded cheddar is folded into the batter, creating pockets of melty cheese in every bite.
Garlic Flavor: The addition of garlic powder enhances the savory profile, pairing perfectly with the cheese.
Versatile Side Dish: This bread pairs well with soups, stews, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread.
4 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the bread rises beautifully.
1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses the bread with a subtle garlic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Add-ins:
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère.
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup milk: Helps create a moist texture.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds moisture and a buttery flavor.
Instructions
Prep Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or spray a standard loaf pan with nonstick spray, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dry mixture.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until fully combined.
Create the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
Gently stir until just combined; avoid overmixing as it can make the bread dense. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
Bake the Bread
Spoon or pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Recipe Success
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the dry ingredients are moistened to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best texture, shred your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to the batter.
Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Herb Blend: Mix in Italian seasoning, rosemary, or dill for extra flavor.
Cheese Swap: Substitute cheddar with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with hearty soups like tomato basil, chicken noodle, or creamy potato soup.
Serve alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables.
Enjoy as a snack with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a foolproof recipe that’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Its simplicity, combined with the rich, cheesy flavor, makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!