How to make Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread

Imagine the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, but without the fuss of yeast or kneading. This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread delivers exactly that – a delightfully savory, moist, and tender loaf bursting with sharp cheddar flavor and a hint of garlic. It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for novice bakers, and comes together in minutes. Ideal as a sidekick to your favorite chili or soup, a hearty addition to a breakfast spread, or simply enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter, this quick bread is a versatile and satisfying treat.

Detailed Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients & Add-ins:

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour, or spray with non-stick cooking spray, a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined, ensuring no lumps.
3. Add Cheese: Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry ingredients until evenly distributed. This coats the cheese in flour, preventing it from sinking to the bottom of the loaf. Set aside.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, and melted butter until thoroughly combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the liquid ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spoon or spatula, stir gently until just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will ensure a tender bread. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough bread.
6. Transfer to Loaf Pan: Spoon or pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out gently to fill the pan.
7. Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for about 10-15 minutes.
9. Remove and Serve: After partial cooling, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and continue cooling on the wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips, Variations, and Storage

• Cheese Quality: For the best flavor, use good quality sharp cheddar cheese and shred it yourself from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Garlic Boost: For more intense garlic flavor, add an extra ½ teaspoon of garlic powder or 1 teaspoon of finely minced fresh garlic.
• Herbaceous Touch: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped chives, dill, or dried Italian herbs (like oregano or basil) with the cheese for an aromatic variation.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeño to the batter for a bit of heat.
• Buttery Top: For an extra golden and flavorful crust, brush the top of the loaf with a little melted butter halfway through baking.
• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also slice and freeze individual portions for up to 3 months, thawing and reheating as needed.

Pairings

• Soups & Stews: The ultimate companion for a hearty bowl of chili, tomato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, or a beef stew.
• Breakfast/Brunch: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, or even toasted with a fried egg on top.
• Sandwiches: Slice thinly and use as a base for small open-faced sandwiches with deli meat or vegetables.
• Main Dishes: A delicious side for roasted chicken, pot roast, or even a simple green salad.
• Beverages: Pair with a glass of milk, hot tea, or a light beer.

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Cuisine: American