This quick bread is a fast and flavorful alternative to traditional yeast breads. It’s moist, cheesy, and full of garlicky, herby goodness. Perfect for busy days or when you want fresh bread without the wait. You don’t need special equipment, and it’s versatile enough to serve at dinner, brunch, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour baking powder salt granulated sugar (optional for balance) garlic powder or minced fresh garlic dried or fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, or chives) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) milk eggs butter or olive oil
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar (if using), and garlic. Stir in herbs and shredded cheese.
In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter or oil.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
Makes 1 standard loaf (about 8–10 slices). Prep time: 10 minutes Bake time: 45–55 minutes Total time: 55–65 minutes
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Different Cheeses: Use feta, gouda, parmesan, or a mix for different flavors.
Veggie Add-ins: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or olives.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Mini Loaves or Muffins: Bake in mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual portions (adjust baking time accordingly).
Storage/Reheating
Store 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 5–10 minutes, or toast lightly in a pan or toaster. You can also freeze the bread for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs add great flavor. Use about three times the amount of dried herbs called for.
What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can use any melty cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix.
Why is my bread crumbly or dry?
Be careful not to overbake, and make sure to measure flour accurately. Slightly under-mixing also helps keep it moist.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk, oil instead of butter, and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Does this bread rise like regular bread?
It rises from the baking powder rather than yeast, so it has a slightly denser but still fluffy texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use two loaf pans or bake in a larger pan. Adjust baking time as needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for several days and tastes great reheated or toasted.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, and the top should be golden and firm to the touch.
Can I use garlic cloves instead of powder?
Yes, just mince 1–2 garlic cloves finely and sauté them briefly in butter or oil before adding.
What dishes pair well with this bread?
It’s great with soups, stews, chili, pasta, or as a side for eggs and salads.
Conclusion
Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-packed addition to any meal. With its cheesy, herby aroma and soft crumb, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together fast and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it warm with butter or alongside your favorite comfort foods, this easy bread recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is a savory, no-yeast loaf bursting with cheesy, garlicky, and herby flavor. It’s soft inside with a golden crust and comes together quickly in one bowl—perfect for soups, pastas, or snacking.
1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar (if using), and garlic powder or minced garlic.
Stir in herbs and shredded cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter or olive oil.
Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use fresh herbs for stronger flavor—triple the amount of dried herbs.Do not overmix the batter to avoid toughness.Try a mix of cheeses for more depth of flavor.Can be made into muffins or mini loaves—adjust bake time to 20–25 minutes.Great served warm with butter or toasted the next day.
