Description
Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter (unsalted)
1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder.
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and sour cream.
Mix the Batter:
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined – avoid overmixing.
Assemble and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips:
For extra flavor, add chopped chives or a dash of paprika to the batter.
Serve warm with a smear of butter for ultimate comfort!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is tender, cheesy, and perfect for pairing with soups or enjoying as a savory snack.
#CheeseBread #SavoryBakes #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the buttermilk, eggs, and sour cream, for even mixing. Preheat your oven and prepare the pan as directed. When mixing the dry ingredients, use a whisk to thoroughly aerate the flour and leaveners. The key step is combining wet and dry ingredients; fold them together with a spatula until no dry streaks remain, but lumps are okay. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough bread. When baking, avoid opening the oven door for the first 35 minutes to prevent collapse. Test for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile bread shines in many settings. Serve thick, warm slices slathered with salted butter or herb-infused cream cheese. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of tomato soup, chili, or a hearty stew. For a brunch item, top a slice with a poached egg and hollandaise. Crumble day-old bread to make savory croutons for salads or a rich bread pudding. It also makes exceptional grilled cheese sandwiches or a flavorful base for eggs Benedict.
How-to Summary
In brief: Whisk dry ingredients with 1 cup cheese. Separately, whisk wet ingredients. Gently combine wet and dry. Pour into a greased loaf pan, top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese, and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes. Cool before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes. Combine 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using.
How should I store leftovers?
Store completely cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely. Fold in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes with the cheese for added flavor and texture.
Why did my bread sink in the middle?
This is typically due to underbaking, overmixing the batter, or using expired baking powder/soda. Ensure your leaveners are fresh and test for doneness properly.
Is this bread suitable for sandwiches?
Yes, once completely cooled, it slices firmly enough for hearty sandwiches. For cleaner slices, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This activates gluten, resulting in a dense, rubbery texture. Mix until just combined.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients don’t incorporate well and can hinder the rise. Bring them to room temperature.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Scooping directly packs the flour, leading to a dry loaf.
- Slicing while hot: The bread needs time to set. Slicing too early causes it to crumble and become gummy.
- Overloading add-ins: Adding too much extra cheese or wet ingredients can weigh down the batter and affect the structure.
Conclusion
This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread is a remarkably simple yet deeply satisfying bake. It delivers maximum cheesy flavor with minimal effort, bypassing the need for yeast and lengthy rise times. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a tender, golden loaf perfect for any occasion. Whether served alongside a meal or enjoyed as a standalone snack, this bread is sure to become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire.