Cheddar cheese quick bread is a savory and flavorful bread that’s easy to make and perfect as a side dish or a snack. Here’s a basic recipe for cheddar cheese quick bread:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme), optional
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper (if using). Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be lumpy.
- Add Herbs (Optional): If you’re using chopped fresh herbs, fold them into the batter.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the greased and floured loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the bread from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cheddar cheese quick bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s great on its own, with a smear of butter, or as a side to soups, stews, or salads.
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other mix-ins such as diced cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even jalapeño peppers for a little heat. This bread is versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences.