Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that balances savory and cheesy in every fluffy bite, this Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a wonderful blend of sharp cheddar cheese and subtle garlic flavor baked into a soft, tender bread that comes together quickly and easily. Perfect for a cozy snack, a side for soups, or even just to enjoy with a pat of butter, this bread brings a delightful homemade charm without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples yet essential for creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color in your Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe. Each one plays a vital role–from the fluffy rise of the baking powder to the rich, melty bursts of cheddar cheese.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and body to the bread.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that ensures a light, airy crumb.
- 1 Tablespoon sugar: Just a touch to balance and enhance the savory flavors.
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder: Brings the signature savory garlic taste that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Heightens all the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- 1½ cups whole milk: Adds moisture and contributes to the tender crumb of the bread.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and enriches the texture.
- 4 Tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness and helps keep the bread moist.
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (from block): The star of the show for that sharp, gooey cheese flavor and lovely orange color flecks.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before doing anything else, get your oven heated to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that once your batter is ready, the oven is at the perfect temperature to bake the bread evenly from the start, making sure you achieve that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt. This combination builds the backbone of the flavor and texture. Whisking them now ensures even distribution of the leavening and seasoning, setting you up for bread that’s flavorful and rises just right.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Make a well in the center of your dry mixture and pour in the milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk these together quickly but gently, just until everything is combined. This technique is essential because over-mixing can lead to a dense bread, while the right balance keeps it light and tender.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Fold in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese using a rubber spatula. Gently mixing it in helps the cheese spread evenly throughout the bread so that every bite offers those delightful pockets of melted cheddar goodness without deflating your batter.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour your batter into a greased bread pan, smoothing the top evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the crust turns a gorgeous golden shade. This step wraps the flavors together and gives you that perfect crust.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then remove it carefully and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. Serving it warm with butter or even a spread of chive cream cheese allows the flavors to shine and the texture to be at its best.
How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chopped chives or parsley on top adds a lovely fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the bread. You can also brush the crust with a little melted butter mixed with minced garlic for an extra garlicky kick and irresistible shine.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups such as tomato basil, creamy potato leek, or a robust chili. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to fresh green salads or roasted vegetables, bringing a satisfying, cheesy element to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the bread sliced with an assortment of dips like spinach artichoke dip, warm marinara, or a smoky bacon jam. You can also transform it into mini sandwiches by adding slices of ham, turkey, or roasted veggies, turning this quick bread into a star ingredient.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for a couple of days and remain just as delicious when lightly reheated.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its wonderful texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This method brings back the crisp crust and warm, melty cheese interior beautifully. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture perfect.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides a sharp, classic flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
Is this bread suitable for freezing and thawing?
Yes, this quick bread freezes very well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw it at room temperature before reheating for best results.
Can I substitute buttermilk for whole milk?
Yes, buttermilk will add a slight tanginess and can help tenderize the bread even more. If you do, consider reducing the baking powder slightly, or adding a pinch of baking soda to balance the acidity.
What’s the secret to keeping the bread moist and tender?
The key is not to over-mix the batter and to use proper proportions of butter and milk. Overworking the batter develops gluten, which can make the bread tough, so mixing just until combined is essential.
Can I add herbs or spices to the recipe?
Definitely! Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano pair beautifully with cheddar and garlic. Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth without overpowering the cheddar flavor.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe enough for anyone looking to add an easy, delicious homemade bread to their repertoire. It’s quick to whip up, ultra flavorful, and so versatile. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this bread will always be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the warm cheesy goodness fresh from your oven!
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Cheddar Garlic Quick Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Cheddar Quick Bread recipe is a simple and satisfying baked bread that combines the rich flavor of sharp cheddar cheese with the convenience of a quick bread batter. Perfect for serving warm with butter or cream cheese, it’s an ideal accompaniment for soups, salads, or a savory breakfast.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Additional
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (from block)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Pre-heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your batter is prepared.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk quickly, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent the bread from becoming dense.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Add the freshly shredded cheddar cheese to the batter. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold or mix the cheese into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into a greased bread pan, spreading evenly. Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Slice and serve warm with butter or chive cream cheese.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Letting the bread cool slightly helps it slice better without crumbling.
- This bread is best served warm for optimal flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
