Name: Easy & Quick Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite); 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or thyme, optional)

Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experience comfort and delight with astonishing simplicity. Imagine stepping into your kitchen, and within minutes, the enticing aroma of warm, savory bread begins to waft through the air, promising a taste sensation that’s both hearty and wonderfully soft. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a testament to how effortlessly you can create something truly spectacular from scratch.

For centuries, various forms of cheese-infused breads have graced tables worldwide, each culture adding its unique twist to this beloved staple. From the cheesy delights of Brazilian Pão de Queijo to Italian formaggio bread, the universal appeal of combining rich cheese with comforting bread is undeniable. What sets this particular recipe apart is its ingenious approach to speed and ease, perfectly encapsulating the essence of an easy quick bread that requires no yeast, no kneading, and minimal proofing time. It’s designed for those moments when you crave fresh-baked goodness without the usual wait.

People adore this dish for countless reasons. Firstly, there’s the irresistible taste: a perfectly balanced savory profile with delightful pockets of melted, gooey cheese in every bite. Then, there’s the texture – a satisfyingly crisp crust yielding to a light, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. Furthermore, its convenience is unparalleled, making it an ideal companion for breakfast, a comforting snack, or a delightful side for any meal. I promise, once you experience the sheer joy and effortless creation of this incredible dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this brilliant baking hack in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour: I always recommend using a good quality, unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture in your quick breads. Make sure to measure it correctly – either by weighing with a kitchen scale or by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly, which can compact the flour and lead to a denser bread.
1 tablespoon (15g) baking powder: This is our primary leavening agent for this wonderful “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” recipe, giving it that lovely rise without any yeast or waiting. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results; old baking powder can lead to flat, disappointing bread.
1 teaspoon salt: Salt is crucial for flavor balance and enhances the taste of the cheese. I prefer fine sea salt or kosher salt for even distribution.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: This adds a lovely subtle warmth and a touch of piquant flavor that complements the sharp cheddar beautifully. Feel free to adjust to your personal preference.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you enjoy a little kick and extra warmth in your savory bread, a tiny bit of cayenne pepper really elevates the flavor profile without making it overtly spicy. It’s a fantastic secret ingredient for adding depth.
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, very cold and cubed: Keeping the butter extremely cold is absolutely vital for achieving that tender, flaky texture characteristic of excellent quick breads. The cold butter creates steam pockets as it melts in the oven, contributing to a light and airy crumb. I usually cut mine into small cubes and pop them back into the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes before I’m ready to use them.
2 cups (about 220g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: For this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread,” I cannot stress enough the importance of shredding your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly and incorporating as well into your dough, potentially leading to a gummier texture. Sharp cheddar delivers the most robust and satisfying cheese flavor here.
¼ cup fresh chives, finely chopped: Fresh chives add a delicate oniony flavor and a beautiful fleck of green to our bread. They are much milder than onions and complement the cheese perfectly. If you don’t have chives, green onions (scallions) can be a good substitute, using only the green parts.
1 cup (240ml) cold whole milk: Using cold milk is another small but significant detail that helps keep the butter cold, further contributing to the bread’s tender texture. Whole milk provides richness, but you could use 2% if that’s what you have on hand.
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional but recommended): A quick egg wash gives our “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” a beautiful golden-brown crust and a lovely sheen. It’s a simple step that really enhances the final presentation.
Extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional): A sprinkle of extra cheese on top before baking creates a wonderfully crisp, cheesy crust that is irresistible.

Preparing the Dough for Your Easy Quick Bread

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients for Success:

Before you even think about mixing, take a moment to ensure all your ingredients are ready and measured accurately. This “mise en place” approach is a professional habit that makes the entire baking process smoother and more enjoyable, especially for an “Easy Quick Bread” like this. Remember to get that butter nice and cold, and shred your cheese fresh! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or grease and flour an 8×8 inch square baking pan or a 9-inch round cake pan. The parchment paper method on a baking sheet is my personal favorite for easy cleanup and consistent browning on the bottom.
Whisk Together the Dry Essentials:

In a large mixing bowl, I like to combine all my dry ingredients first. This means adding the 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and the optional ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Using a wire whisk, gently but thoroughly mix these ingredients together for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. The goal here is to ensure that the baking powder, our key leavening agent for this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread,” is evenly distributed throughout the flour. This prevents uneven rising and ensures a light, consistent crumb in every bite.
Incorporate the Cold Butter for Tenderness:

Now for the critical step of adding the butter. Take your ½ cup of very cold, cubed unsalted butter from the fridge or freezer. Add these cold cubes directly into your dry ingredient mixture. You have a couple of options for incorporating the butter:
- Using a Pastry Blender: This is my preferred method. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, with some pieces of butter still about the size of small peas. The pastry blender makes quick work of this and helps keep the butter cold.
- Using Your Fingertips: If you don’t have a pastry blender, you can use your clean fingertips. Gently rub the butter into the flour mixture. Work quickly to avoid warming the butter too much with the heat from your hands. Again, aim for a coarse, crumbly texture with pea-sized butter pieces.
- Using a Food Processor (with caution): For an even quicker method, you can pulse the dry ingredients and cold butter in a food processor a few times until the desired crumbly texture is achieved. Be very careful not to overmix, as this can generate too much heat and compromise the butter’s coldness.
The reason we keep the butter cold and don’t fully incorporate it is to create those wonderful pockets of steam during baking. As the cold butter melts, it releases steam, which helps to separate the layers of dough, resulting in an incredibly tender and slightly flaky texture, a hallmark of a truly great “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread.”
Fold in the Flavorful Add-ins:

Once your butter is incorporated, it’s time to add the stars of our show: the cheese and chives! Gently fold in the 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh chives into the butter-flour mixture. Use a rubber spatula or a wooden spoon for this, mixing just enough to evenly distribute these ingredients. You want every slice of this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” to be packed with cheesy, herbaceous goodness!
Add the Cold Milk and Mix Just Until Combined:

Pour the 1 cup of cold whole milk into the bowl with your dry ingredients and cheese mixture. Now, this next part is crucial for any quick bread: mix gently and only until the ingredients are just combined. You should still see some dry streaks of flour, and the dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which leads to a tough, dense bread, exactly what we want to avoid with our “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread.” A few gentle folds with your spatula are usually enough. The less you work the dough, the more tender and delightful your bread will be.
Shape Your Easy Quick Bread:

Turn the shaggy dough out onto your prepared baking sheet or into your greased pan. If using a baking sheet, I typically shape it into a rustic round loaf, about 7-8 inches in diameter and roughly 1.5 to 2 inches thick. You can use your hands, lightly floured if the dough is too sticky, to gently pat and form it. Avoid pressing down too hard or overworking it. If using a square or round pan, simply spread the dough evenly into the pan. This rustic shaping contributes to the charm of this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread.”
Apply the Optional Egg Wash and Topping:

If you opt for the egg wash (which I highly recommend for a beautiful golden crust!), lightly beat one large egg in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the top surface of your shaped dough with the beaten egg. Be careful not to let too much drip down the sides. For an extra layer of cheesy goodness and a lovely crispy topping, sprinkle a handful of extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the egg-washed surface. This will create a delicious, savory crust that’s truly irresistible.

Baking Your Cheese Bread to Golden Perfection

Bake Until Golden and Delicious:

Carefully transfer your prepared “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for approximately 25-35 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so I always recommend keeping an eye on it.
- Visual Cues for Doneness: You’re looking for a beautiful deep golden-brown crust on top and around the edges. The bread should feel firm to the touch when gently pressed.
- Internal Temperature Check (Optional but Recommended): For ultimate certainty, you can use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf. The internal temperature should register at least 200-210°F (93-99°C). This ensures it’s cooked through.
- The Aroma Test: Your kitchen will fill with an incredible, intoxicating aroma of baked cheese and savory bread when it’s ready. That’s always a good sign!
Do not be tempted to open the oven door too frequently, especially in the first 15-20 minutes, as this can cause the bread to deflate. This “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” is quite robust, but consistency in temperature helps it rise evenly.
Cooling and Serving Your Masterpiece:

Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” from the oven. If you baked it on parchment paper, you can slide it directly onto a wire cooling rack. If in a pan, let it cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to finish cooling.
Allowing it to cool on a wire rack is important for a couple of reasons:
- Prevents Sogginess: It allows air to circulate around all sides of the bread, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy from trapped steam.
- Sets the Crumb: The internal structure of the bread continues to set as it cools, leading to a better texture when sliced.
While this bread is absolutely delicious warm, straight from the oven (and who can resist a piece of hot, melty cheese bread?), letting it cool for at least 15-20 minutes makes it much easier to slice neatly. It’s truly a delight, making it an ideal companion for soups, stews, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter. This “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” is incredibly versatile and satisfies that savory craving perfectly.

Tips, Variations, and Storage for Your Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread

Explore Other Cheese Varieties:

While sharp cheddar is a classic for this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread,” feel free to experiment with other cheeses or a blend! Some fantastic options include:
- Monterey Jack: A milder, meltier choice.
- Gruyère: Offers a nutty, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully.
- Smoked Gouda: Adds a beautiful smoky depth.
- Pepper Jack: For those who love a bit more heat and a spicy kick.
- Parmesan or Asiago: Grated finely, these can add a sharp, salty bite, especially good when mixed with a milder cheese.
Using a combination of two different cheeses can often yield the most complex and satisfying flavor profile for your quick bread. Just ensure they are cheeses that melt well.
Herb and Spice Additions:

Beyond chives, many other fresh or dried herbs can elevate this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread.” Consider:
- Dill: Pairs beautifully with cheddar and offers a fresh, slightly tangy note.
- Rosemary: A robust herb that brings an earthy, piney aroma. Chop it very finely.
- Thyme: Delicate and fragrant, it’s a great companion to savory breads.
- Garlic Powder or Granulated Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, ½ to 1 teaspoon added to the dry ingredients will infuse the entire loaf with a delightful savory essence.
- Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, ½ to 1 teaspoon will enhance the savory, aromatic qualities.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For an even more pronounced kick than cayenne, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be folded in with the cheese.
Remember to adjust the quantities to your taste, as some herbs and spices are more potent than others.
Serving Suggestions for Your Savory Quick Bread:

This “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” is incredibly versatile and shines in many settings.
- With Soups and Stews: It’s the ultimate companion for a hearty bowl of chili, tomato soup, French onion soup, or any warming stew. Its savory richness is a perfect complement.
- Alongside Salads: Serve a slice with a fresh green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Breakfast or Brunch: It makes a fantastic addition to a brunch spread, perhaps with scrambled eggs or alongside a charcuterie board.
- Snack Time: Enjoy a slice on its own, perhaps lightly toasted and spread with a little butter or cream cheese, for a delightful mid-day treat.
- Sandwich Base: For something truly unique, slice it horizontally and use it as the bread for a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple ham and cheese. The flavor layers will be incredible.
Storage and Reheating:

One of the best things about this “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” is that it stores quite well, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness for days.
- Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. However, refrigeration can sometimes dry out quick breads, so it’s best if you plan to toast it.
- Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled loaf (whole or sliced) tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature overnight or reheat directly from frozen.
- Reheating: To bring the bread back to life, especially if it’s a day or two old, you can:
  - Oven: Wrap slices or the whole loaf loosely in foil and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes (for slices) or 15-25 minutes (for a whole loaf), until warmed through and the cheese is gooey again.
  - Toaster Oven/Toaster: Individual slices are wonderful lightly toasted, bringing out the crispness of the crust and the meltiness of the cheese.
This “Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread” is a truly rewarding recipe, offering a delightful combination of savory flavors and a wonderfully tender texture, all achieved with impressive ease and speed. I hope you enjoy baking and savoring every single bite!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the simple steps, the delightful aroma, and the promise of a truly exceptional baked good. What truly sets this recipe apart, making it an absolute must-try in your kitchen, is its remarkable blend of rich flavor, incredible versatility, and, most importantly, its sheer ease and speed. You won’t believe how quickly you can go from craving to a golden-brown, cheesy masterpiece. This isn’t just another bread recipe; it’s a culinary revelation that proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen to produce something utterly delicious and comforting. I promise you, the moment that first incredible aroma fills your home, you’ll know you made the right choice.

The magic of this bread lies in its comforting familiarity combined with an unexpected depth of flavor. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory cheese and a tender, moist crumb that practically melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of bread that evokes cozy memories and instantly makes any meal feel more special. Imagine pulling a warm loaf from your oven, the cheese bubbling and slightly caramelized on top, its irresistible scent beckoning everyone to the table. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick side that feels gourmet, or for a leisurely weekend brunch when you want to impress without the stress. This bread delivers on taste, texture, and convenience every single time.

One of the things I adore most about this particular creation is its incredible adaptability. While it shines brightly on its own, offering a wonderful counterpoint to so many dishes, it also welcomes a variety of companions. For a cozy evening, imagine a chilly evening, a comforting bowl of your favorite tomato or broccoli cheddar soup, perfectly complemented by a warm, golden slice of this incredible bread, still steaming from the oven. The way it soaks up the savory broth is nothing short of culinary magic. It’s equally fantastic alongside a crisp garden salad, adding a hearty, satisfying element, or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite pasta dish, turning a simple meal into an Italian-inspired feast. Don’t overlook its potential for breakfast or brunch either; a slice of this bread, perhaps lightly toasted and spread with a little butter or cream cheese, makes for an indulgent start to any day. It even makes for a phenomenal base for mini open-faced sandwiches or bruschetta.

Now, let’s talk about making it truly your own. The beauty of this recipe is its forgiveness and willingness to be customized. While the core recipe is utterly perfect as is, feel free to explore variations that suit your palate and what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese! Instead of just cheddar, try a blend of sharp provolone and mild mozzarella for a stringier, more Italian-American profile, or incorporate some smoked gouda for an added layer of complexity. A sprinkle of dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil can infuse it with an aromatic kick, while a touch of garlic powder or onion powder can deepen its savory notes. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, finely diced jalapeños (either fresh or pickled) folded into the batter will add a delightful spicy zing that cuts through the richness of the cheese. You could even add some cooked, crumbled bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and texture. The possibilities are truly endless, making this a recipe you can revisit and reinvent time and again.

So, now it’s your turn! I’ve shared all my tips and enthusiasm, and I genuinely believe this recipe for Cheese Bread Easy Quick Bread will quickly become a cherished favorite in your own cooking repertoire. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, set aside a few minutes, and prepare to be amazed at the deliciousness you can create. Don’t let another day pass without experiencing the warmth, comfort, and sheer joy that comes from baking and savoring this incredible bread. I encourage you to not only try this recipe but to also share your experience with me! What cheeses did you use? Did you add any exciting twists? Did it become an instant family favorite? I absolutely love hearing from you and seeing your wonderful creations. Please feel free to share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs in the comments below. Happy baking, my friends, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite quick bread!