Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking.

2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder (if using), black pepper, and sugar. This will ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and ready for the wet ingredients.

3. Add the Cheese:

• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure each piece is coated with the flour mixture. This helps prevent the cheese from sinking to the bottom of the loaf as it bakes.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth and well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.

6. Transfer to the Loaf Pan:

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Bake the Bread:

• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should sound hollow when tapped lightly.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve while still warm, or at room temperature.

Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread:

• Cheese Selection: The type of cheddar you use can greatly affect the flavor of the bread. Sharp cheddar gives a more intense cheese flavor, while mild cheddar provides a softer, more subtle taste. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for variety.
• Add-ins: For an extra burst of flavor, you can stir in cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the batter.
• Texture Variations: If you prefer a more dense, crumbly texture, you can add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.
• Serving Ideas: This quick bread is perfect for pairing with a bowl of soup or chili, or it can be served alongside a salad for a light lunch. It also makes a fantastic addition to a brunch spread or as an appetizer for a gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread:

This recipe is the perfect way to enjoy the delicious combination of cheese and bread without the need for complicated techniques or long preparation times. The bread is wonderfully soft and moist on the inside, with a slightly crisp top, while the cheddar cheese provides an irresistible burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced home cook, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delightful loaf of cheddar cheese bread ready to serve. It’s an ideal recipe to make for family dinners, holiday meals, or when you want a savory snack that feels like a treat.

Give this Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread a try today, and enjoy the cheesy goodness in every slice!