Cheddar Herb Bread: A Savory Delight
If you’re searching for a soul-nourishing treat that whisks you back to cozy family gatherings or bustling brunches, then look no further than this delectable Cheddar Herb Bread. Imagine the golden crust rising in the oven, filling your kitchen with the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked goodness, mingling warmth and comfort in every bite. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that evoke nostalgia and satisfaction, making it a must-try for both kids and adults alike.
Are You Ready to Dive Into Something Irresistibly Scrumptious?
Have you ever bitten into a slice of warm, cheesy bread, and felt an instant wave of happiness wash over you? Can you recall those moments when the kitchen was filled with laughter, aroma, and the tantalizing anticipation of sharing a meal with loved ones? This Cheddar Herb Bread is more than just food; it’s an experience waiting to be savored, craved, and cherished.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this bread together in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks, everyone will be asking for seconds.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh herbs creates a taste that’s both gourmet and comforting.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, making it an excellent option for family-friendly meals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
When gathered together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful richness, while the fresh herbs infuse the bread with a vibrant aroma that beckons you to dive in. Picture the inviting combination of flour and milk creating a soft, pillowy structure, while sugar brings just the right hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
Timing
This Cheddar Herb Bread strikes the perfect balance between fast and indulgent. With just around 10 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of baking, you can have a warm, golden loaf ready for your table in under an hour. Whether you’re craving an immediate comfort food fix or looking forward to an indulgent afternoon snack, this recipe delivers satisfaction swiftly.
Step-by-Step
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease your loaf pan. Lightly flour the pan to ensure a flawless release.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, ensuring an even distribution for evenly risen bread.
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Now, fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs, allowing the rich flavors to intermingle throughout your dry mixture.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, melted butter, and eggs until combined—you want this mixture to be smooth and inviting.
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Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don’t overdo it—lumps are perfectly fine!
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Transfer the luscious batter to your prepared loaf pan. As it goes in, you can almost hear it whispering promises of cheesy goodness.
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Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool. Your patience will pay off!
Nutritional Information
Each slice of this savory Cheddar Herb Bread is packed with approximately 200 calories, making it a delightful indulgence. While it’s not the lightest option, the wholesome ingredients and satisfying taste make it perfectly okay to savor every bite with joy, especially when shared with loved ones.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to adjust this recipe without sacrificing flavor, consider these swaps:
- Use whole wheat flour for added nutrients and fiber.
- Experiment with low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to cut calories while still keeping it cheesy.
- Substitute applesauce for part of the butter for a lower-fat version.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheddar Herb Bread makes a fabulous companion to soups, salads, or as a standalone snack for those cozy afternoons. You might even want to serve it alongside your favorite dipping sauces or spread with a dollop of butter. And don’t shy away from experimenting—adding a scoop of ice cream on top can elevate it to a dessert-like experience for those special occasions!
Common Mistakes
To ensure a successful bake, beware of these common pitfalls:
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your loaf, as it can quickly go from perfectly golden to dry and crumbly.
- Texture Issues: Mixing too long can lead to a dense loaf; remember, lumps are your friends!
- Messy Prep: Use a generous amount of flour on your counter when shaping to prevent a sticky situation.
Storing Tips
To keep your Cheddar Herb Bread fresh:
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It can last for up to three days at room temperature.
- If you want to save some for later, slice and freeze individual portions. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick snack!
Tempted to Bake This Bread ASAP?
Now that your taste buds are tingling and aromas are swirling in your imagination, it’s time to gather your ingredients and create this delightful Cheddar Herb Bread. Your loved ones will thank you, and you’ll savor every gooey, cheesy bite!
FAQs
1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead and bake it just before serving for maximum freshness.
2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, although fresh herbs bring more flavor, dried herbs can work too. Just use a smaller amount since they’re more concentrated.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure your mixing bowl and loaf pans are large enough to accommodate the batch.
4. How can I tell when the bread is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown.
5. What can I serve with Cheddar Herb Bread?
This bread pairs perfectly with soups, hearty salads, or even just a simple spread of butter or herb-infused oils.
Feel free to indulge in the preparation of this enriching Cheddar Herb Bread; it promises both comfort and delight in every slice!
Print
Cheddar Herb Bread
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory delight filled with sharp cheddar and fresh herbs, perfect for family gatherings and brunches.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease your loaf pan. Lightly flour the pan to ensure a flawless release.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, ensuring an even distribution.
- Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, melted butter, and eggs until combined.
- Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool.
Notes
Wrap tightly to keep fresh for up to three days. Slice and freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
