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Introduction:
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the perfect blend of savory flavors, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Unlike traditional yeast breads, this quick bread requires no rising time, making it an easy go-to for busy days. Whether served as a side for soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own, this bread delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of fresh herbs and gooey cheese creates a soft, flavorful crumb with a beautifully golden crust.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil or melted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill, or a mix)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and olive oil (or melted butter) until fully combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Transfer to Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or herbs on top for a decorative touch.
7. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work well too—just reduce the quantity to 1-2 teaspoons.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slices in the oven for a freshly baked feel.
- Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice):
Serves: 10 slices
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
Conclusion:
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or as a snack, this bread is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today, and enjoy the heartwarming aroma of fresh herbs and cheese wafting through your kitchen!
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