Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)

If you’re looking for a delightful bread that comes together quickly and doesn’t require any yeast, then you’ve stumbled upon a treasure! This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) is a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The combination of gooey cheese, fragrant herbs, and aromatic garlic makes this bread a comforting addition to any meal. Imagine pulling a warm loaf from the oven, slicing into it, and enjoying the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s truly a slice of comfort in every bite!

Whether you’re serving it alongside soups, using it as a base for sandwiches, or simply enjoying it on its own with a pat of butter, this quick bread will elevate any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no yeast and minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and savory flavors, even picky eaters will love this bread!
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or pair it with your favorite dips and spreads—it’s delicious any way you slice it.
• Make-Ahead: Bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy fresh slices throughout the week.
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The blend of fresh herbs and garlic infuses every bite with flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to make this delicious bread!

For the Bread

• 200 grams (7 ounces) of cheese (such as cheddar or tasty), sliced into approximately 3 millimeters (0.1 inch) thick pieces of varying widths for a rustic appearance.
• 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
• 2 garlic cloves (crushed using a garlic press or finely grated)
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon of cooking salt or kosher salt (use half the amount if using fine table salt)
• 2¼ cups of plain flour (all-purpose flour)
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda (or substitute with 3½ teaspoons of baking powder)
• ¾ teaspoon of cooking salt or kosher salt (halve the amount if using table salt)
• ½ cup of plain yogurt (Greek or regular, full-fat and unsweetened)
• ¾ cup of full-fat milk (low-fat may be substituted)
• 2 large eggs (approximately 50–55 grams or 2 ounces each)
• 50 grams (3½ tablespoons) of unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 small garlic cloves (crushed or grated)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to give your bread a little kick.
• Change the Cheese: Experiment with different types like feta or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Herb Swaps: Use other fresh herbs like thyme or chives instead of rosemary and parsley.

How to Make Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly right from the start. While it’s heating up, prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it with butter or oil spray and lining it with baking paper. This will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped rosemary, parsley, dried oregano, dried thyme, crushed garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and cooking salt. Mix until you achieve a thick consistency. This mixture is packed with flavor and will be swirled into your batter later!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda (or baking powder), and salt until well combined. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the leavening agents across your flour for an airy loaf.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, milk, eggs, melted butter, olive oil, and additional crushed garlic until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly helps them emulsify so they blend seamlessly into the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Create a well in the center of your dry mixture and pour in all the wet ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This will keep your bread light and fluffy.

Step 6: Layer It Up!

Pour one-third of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Dollop one-third of the herb mixture evenly across this layer. Use a knife to create gentle swirls so those lovely flavors are incorporated throughout! Then add one-third of your cheese slices randomly into the batter—some should be submerged while others peek through for that rustic look. Repeat this layering two more times.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Place your loaf in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until golden brown on top. After that time has passed, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and bake for an additional 20 minutes. To check doneness, insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Let your loaf cool in the pan for five minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool for at least another ten minutes before slicing into thick pieces. Feel free to slather on some butter if you’d like!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)

Making this quick bread is a delightful experience, and a few tips can elevate it even further!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and aroma to your bread. Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh varieties enhance the overall taste and provide a burst of color.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser bread, while gentle mixing retains that lovely light texture.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses! A combination of mozzarella for stretchiness and sharp cheddar for flavor can create a beautifully complex taste.

• Adjust Baking Time if Needed: Every oven is unique; keep an eye on your bread during baking. If it browns too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent burning while ensuring it bakes through.

• Cool Before Slicing: Letting the bread cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its structure and prevents it from becoming gummy. Patience here pays off with perfect slices!

How to Serve Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)

This quick bread is not only delicious on its own but can also be dressed up for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds richness and enhances the herb flavors.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the savory flavors of the bread. The crunch from fresh vegetables provides a great texture contrast.

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the quick bread.

• Hummus or Dip: Offer a flavorful hummus or bean dip as an accompaniment. The creaminess of the dip complements the texture of the bread while introducing new flavors.

• Soup: This quick bread makes an excellent partner for soups like tomato basil or minestrone. The warm soup enhances the comforting feel of your meal.

Enjoy your delightful Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) on its own or as part of a larger spread—it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy its wonderful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place the wrapped bread in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To maintain quality, try to remove as much air as possible from the freezer bag.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Unwrap the slices and place them on a baking sheet.
• Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, but this may affect texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers may have about this recipe:

Can I use different herbs in my Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or chives. Each will give a unique flavor profile that complements the cheese beautifully.

How can I make my Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) gluten-free?

To make this quick bread gluten-free, substitute plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free!

What type of cheese works best in Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)?

Cheddar is a classic choice due to its sharpness and meltability. However, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor experience!

Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes?

Definitely! Adding finely chopped vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance both flavor and texture. Just be mindful of moisture content; too much liquid can affect the bread’s structure.

How do I know when my Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) is done?

The loaf should be golden brown on top. You can also insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) as much as I do! It’s such a comforting recipe that brings together delicious flavors and aromas—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or savoring leftovers throughout the week, this quick bread is sure to bring warmth to your table. Happy baking!