Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe 🧀🍞
Indulge in the rich, cheesy decadence of this Cheddar Quick Bread! Easy to whip up and loaded with freshly shredded cheddar, this savory bread is the perfect side for soups, stews, or just as a standalone snack. Its buttery garlic topping adds the final touch of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!
📝 Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
- A pinch of onion powder
- A pinch of dried parsley
🥣 Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Generously coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or grease with butter.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and toss to ensure it’s evenly coated with the flour mixture.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
- Pour this wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the dough is evenly moistened. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- While the bread is baking, whisk together melted butter, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and dried parsley in a small bowl.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately brush the top with the prepared butter topping.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with soups like tomato basil or creamy potato leek.
- Serve as a side to stews or chili for added cheesy comfort.
- Enjoy on its own as a snack or breakfast treat with a pat of butter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
- Freshly shredded cheese is best, as pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
2. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
- Yes! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
3. Can I freeze this bread?
- Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
- Sure! Try sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Bread too dense:
- Avoid overmixing the dough; stir just until combined.
2. Dry bread:
- Measure ingredients carefully, especially flour, and ensure your oven isn’t too hot.
3. Topping not soaking in:
- Brush the butter topping on immediately after removing the bread from the oven so it absorbs properly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheddar Quick Bread
- Boost Flavor: Add chopped jalapeños or cooked bacon bits for a flavorful twist.
- Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top before baking for a crispy cheese crust.
- Perfect Texture: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.
⏰ Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
🍴 Servings: 12 slices
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