Imagine the aroma of warm, cheesy bread wafting through your kitchen, the golden crust glistening with a buttery herb topping. Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread is your ultimate savory indulgence—a loaf packed with the tangy richness of cheddar cheese and a tender crumb that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside a bowl of soup or enjoying it as a snack, this recipe will make your taste buds dance with delight.
Why You’ll Love Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread
- Cheesy Perfection: Loaded with 3 cups of freshly shredded cheddar cheese for ultimate flavor.
- No Yeast Required: Skip the waiting game—this quick bread comes together in no time.
- Buttery Herb Topping: A flavorful glaze of garlic, parsley, and butter takes this bread to the next level.
- Versatile Side or Snack: Pair it with soups, stews, or salads, or enjoy it on its own.
- Simple and Satisfying: Easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
Ingredients for Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Bread | All-purpose flour | 1 3/4 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon | |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon | |
| Fine sea salt | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Freshly shredded cheddar cheese | 3 cups | |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | |
| Large egg | 1 | |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/4 cup | |
| Topping | Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Fine sea salt | 1/8 teaspoon | |
| Onion powder | Pinch | |
| Dried parsley | Pinch |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread
1. Prepare Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a standard loaf pan and lightly dust it with flour. Set it aside.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and sea salt.
- This ensures even distribution for a consistent rise.
3. Add Cheese to the Dry Ingredients
- Toss the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry mixture.
- Coating the cheese in flour helps it distribute evenly throughout the bread.
4. Whisk the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
- Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and tender.
6. Transfer Batter to the Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Prepare the Herb Topping
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, sea salt, onion powder, and dried parsley.
- Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the top of the batter.
8. Bake the Bread
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The top should be golden brown with a slightly crispy texture.
9. Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, or slice and serve warm for a gooey, cheesy experience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread
1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. Grate fresh cheddar for the best results.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Stir just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.
3. Customize the Topping
Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
4. Test for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
5. Store Leftovers Properly
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/10 Loaf) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 430mg |
Serving Suggestions
- With Soup: Pair with tomato soup, chili, or creamy potato soup for a cozy meal.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Enjoy with scrambled eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon.
- Snack: Slice and serve on its own for an easy, cheesy treat.
- Sandwich Base: Use it as the bread for a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich.
FAQs About Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread
1. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for similar results.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Swap cheddar for Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a sharp Parmesan for unique flavor variations.
3. How do I freeze this bread?
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat if desired.
4. Can I add other mix-ins?
Certainly! Try diced jalapeños, cooked ham, or caramelized onions for extra flair.
5. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.
6. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
Make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread is a surefire way to elevate your bread-baking game without the hassle of yeast or long proofing times. The combination of rich cheddar, fluffy crumb, and herby butter topping makes this loaf irresistible. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Call to Action
Ready to bake your way to cheesy perfection? Gather your ingredients and whip up Cheddar Bliss Quick Bread today. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to become a household favorite!