Why You’ll Love Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
This bread delivers the perfect balance of fluffy texture, cheesy richness, and herby freshness. You’ll love how quickly it comes together without the need for yeast or proofing time. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a cozy dinner, or just need something warm and satisfying from the oven. The versatility of the herbs and cheeses means you can customize it to suit any occasion or preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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All-purpose flour
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Baking powder
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Fresh chives, chopped
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Milk
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Olive oil
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Egg
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, parsley, chives, Parmesan, and cheddar.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, olive oil, and egg until well combined.
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Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until everything is incorporated—do not overmix.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
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Cheese swap: Use Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
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Herb mix-up: Substitute parsley and chives with dill, thyme, or basil depending on your taste.
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Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
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Garlic boost: Stir in a teaspoon of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for added depth.
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Gluten-free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes, or toast them for extra crunch. You can also freeze the bread, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs—use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely. It keeps well and can be made a day in advance, then gently reheated or served at room temperature.
Do I need to use both types of cheese?
No, you can use just one type if preferred, but combining cheeses adds more flavor and texture.
Can I add other ingredients like bacon or olives?
Yes, chopped cooked bacon, olives, or even sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions.
What kind of milk should I use?
Whole milk works best for richness, but you can also use 2%, or even plant-based milk like unsweetened almond or oat milk.
Why did my bread turn out dense?
Overmixing the batter or using old baking powder can cause the bread to be dense. Be sure to mix just until combined and use fresh leavening agents.
Can I use self-rising flour instead?
Yes, but omit the baking powder and reduce the added salt, as self-rising flour already contains both.
What size loaf pan should I use?
A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan is ideal for this recipe.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.
Conclusion
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a delicious, savory addition to your homemade baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving it with a cozy soup, a fresh salad, or enjoying it as a standalone snack, this bread is sure to impress with its rich flavor and easy preparation. It’s the kind of go-to recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
