Cheese and Herb Bread

Cheese and herb bread is a savory, aromatic loaf packed with flavorful herbs and rich, melty cheese. Perfect as a side for soups and salads, or enjoyed simply with a pat of butter, this bread brings together a soft, tender crumb and a deliciously golden, cheesy crust. It is an excellent choice for family meals, gatherings, or anytime you want a comforting, homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheese and herb bread is easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of cheese and herbs gives the bread an irresistible aroma and taste. It pairs well with almost any meal and can be adapted to include your favorite cheeses and herbs. This recipe does not require complicated techniques, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. Plus, the homemade aroma while baking is absolutely delightful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Milk or buttermilk
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)
• Fresh or dried herbs (such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, or chives)
• Garlic powder (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and garlic powder if using.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk and olive oil or melted butter, mixing well.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs gently, reserving a little cheese for topping if desired.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top for an extra cheesy crust.
8. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf, serving approximately 8 slices. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the baking time is 45–50 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Cheese Bread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Herb Bread: Increase the amount of garlic powder and use a mix of Italian herbs.
• Sun-Dried Tomato and Herb Bread: Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the cheese and herbs.
• Mixed Cheese Bread: Use a combination of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda for deeper flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store cheese and herb bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes, or lightly toast them for a crisp texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent the bread from becoming chewy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use any melting cheese you prefer, such as gouda, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack.

Can I freeze cheese and herb bread?

Yes, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What herbs work best in this bread?

Parsley, thyme, rosemary, chives, and oregano all complement the cheese flavor well.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming dry?

Do not overbake, and make sure to measure your ingredients properly to maintain moisture.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this batter?

Yes, you can divide the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins. Adjust the baking time accordingly (about 20–25 minutes for muffins).

What can I serve with cheese and herb bread?

It pairs perfectly with soups, stews, salads, or can be served as an appetizer with dips.

How do I get a golden crust?

Sprinkling extra cheese on top before baking helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk, but the flavor and texture may slightly differ.

Why is my bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can cause the bread to become dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

Should the herbs be fresh or dried?

Both work well. Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor, while dried herbs are more concentrated; adjust the quantity accordingly.

Conclusion

Cheese and herb bread is a wonderfully savory addition to any meal, boasting a flavorful, soft crumb and a cheesy, herby aroma that is hard to resist. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it is a reliable recipe for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Whether served warm from the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, cheese and herb bread is sure to become a household favorite.

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