If you are on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful bread that truly melts hearts, this Cheese Bread Recipe is going to become your new kitchen favorite. Imagine a golden crust giving way to a moist, tender crumb packed with a trio of cheeses and a hint of aromatic herbs — every slice delivers a savory symphony that pairs beautifully with everything from soups to salads or just on its own. This Cheese Bread Recipe is simple enough for a cozy weekday baking session yet special enough to impress anyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Cheese Bread Recipe is straightforward, and each addition plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect combination of flavor, texture, and color. From the tangy buttermilk that keeps the bread moist to the blend of cheeses that give it richness and depth, each component is an essential part of this delicious loaf.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the bread’s tender crumb and structure.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Provides the rise and lightness to the loaf.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk for a soft yet fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the cheese’s savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a gentle herbal earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a fresh, slightly minty flavor that complements the cheeses.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, delivers that classic cheesy bite.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey meltiness and creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick to the mix.
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk: Contributes moisture and a subtle tang that lightens the bread.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Enriches the dough with a silky, tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and help with the bread’s rising process.
How to Make Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to ensure your cheesy masterpiece doesn’t stick and can come out perfectly formed.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme. This ensures the leaveners and seasonings are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and rise throughout the bread.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until they are evenly mixed. The combination of these cheeses will give your bread an irresistible flavor and rich cheesy pockets in every bite.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This wet mixture brings moisture, richness, and binds the bread together.
Step 5: Gently Mix Wet and Dry Components
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Don’t overmix here — a few small lumps are fine. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, and we want light and fluffy cheese bread.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the surface. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the crust is beautifully golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting stage helps the cheese bread hold its shape and finish setting before you transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or slice right away for warm, gooey enjoyment.
How to Serve Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this Cheese Bread Recipe shines on its own, dressing it up with fresh herb sprigs like rosemary or thyme adds visual appeal and a fresh note. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance the crust’s flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bread is a superstar companion for soups, especially creamy tomato or hearty vegetable soups. It’s also fantastic alongside crisp green salads or served as part of a rustic charcuterie board to balance strong meats and pickled vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bread and toast each piece to create crunchy croutons for salads or soups. Alternatively, transform leftovers into grilled cheese sandwiches or use as a base for open-faced bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bread soft and preserves the cheesy goodness.
Freezing
If you want to save this Cheese Bread Recipe for longer, freeze it by wrapping the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months, and you’ll have a quick treat ready anytime.
Reheating
To bring your cheese bread back to life, thaw frozen slices at room temperature and warm them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the crisp crust and melty cheese sensation beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness, you can swap in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for different flavor profiles.
Is buttermilk necessary for this Cheese Bread Recipe?
Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and tender texture, but if you don’t have it, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum can work well. Just keep in mind that texture and rise might differ slightly from the classic version.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best indicator is a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. The top should be golden and firm to the touch.
Can I add extra herbs or spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like chives or rosemary or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth that complements the cheeses beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Bread Recipe is one of those joyful baking adventures that feels rewarding every single time. It’s wonderfully versatile, endlessly tasty, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen as it has become in mine.
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Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious Cheese Bread recipe combines a trio of cheeses with aromatic herbs to create a moist, flavorful loaf perfect as a savory snack or accompaniment to any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this bread is ideal for cheese lovers seeking a quick homemade treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme until thoroughly blended.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses into the dry mixture ensuring even distribution.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, and eggs until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice the bread and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy as a savory snack or alongside soups, salads, or main dishes.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter as this can result in a dense bread texture.
- Ensure all cheeses are shredded or grated finely for the best even texture.
- Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for best rise.
- The bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave for a warm, melty serving.
