Cheese Bread Recipe
Cheese Bread is one of those comforting, golden-crusted creations that always disappears in a flash—whether it’s serving as the centerpiece at brunch, a cozy snack on a chilly day, or an irresistible side for soup night. The cheese melts into the soft center, while the top bakes to a gloriously cheesy finish that’s impossible to resist. If you’re craving something savory, ridiculously easy to make, and endlessly customizable, this is the recipe you’ll want to save, share, and, most importantly, savor bite after bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Cheese Bread is how it starts with a handful of staples, each playing a key role in building an ultra-fluffy loaf with just the right amount of cheesy goodness and savory flair. Don’t skip any—each ingredient adds a layer of flavor or texture that makes every bite special.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and soft crumb that holds all that cheesy goodness together.
- Baking powder: Ensures the loaf rises beautifully, creating that light and airy texture you crave in a quick bread.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor, making the cheese really pop.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite): Delivers luscious meltiness and a punch of cheesy flavor—experiment with blends for variety!
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps make the crumb tender and rich.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter: Brings extra softness and a slight richness; butter gives more flavor while oil adds moistness.
- Large egg: Binds the batter and adds a little lift for a cohesive and satisfying loaf.
- Garlic powder (optional): Lends subtle warmth and savory depth—especially good if you love garlicky notes!
- Dried herbs (like oregano or thyme, optional): Introduces a fragrant, herby aroma and added complexity—use your favorites or a mix.
How to Make Cheese Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Cheese Bread bakes evenly, developing that irresistible golden crust on top. While the oven heats, take a moment to grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with a bit of butter or a quick spray of oil. Lining it with parchment paper is optional but helps to lift the loaf out without sticking or crumbling—you’ll thank yourself later!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs until they’re well combined. This step is key for even distribution of the leavening and seasoning, so every bite has that balanced, savory flavor you love in Cheese Bread.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Fold in the shredded cheese, coating each bit with the flour mixture. This not only disperses the cheese evenly throughout the loaf but also prevents it from sinking to the bottom while baking. Use sharp cheddar for boldness or mozzarella for extra gooeyness—both work beautifully, or go rogue and try a blend!
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil (or melted butter), and large egg until smooth. This will become the backbone of your loaf, bringing moisture and cohesion that keeps the crumb fluffy and tender.
Step 5: Bring it All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the flour and cheese. Gently mix until just combined—overmixing can make your Cheese Bread dense, so stop as soon as you see the last streak of flour disappear. If the batter seems thick, don’t worry—it’s supposed to be substantial.
Step 6: Transfer and Top
Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it bakes up evenly. For an inviting finish, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top. This gives you a bronze, melty crust that’s pure magic when sliced warm.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. About halfway through, check the color; if the top is browning too fast, cover it loosely with foil. The Cheese Bread is ready when it turns a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once your loaf is baked to perfection, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully lift it onto a wire rack to cool completely—this brief rest keeps the bread tender and stops the cheese from becoming rubbery. Wait at least 20 more minutes before slicing with a serrated knife for beautiful, clean slices.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
This is the best part! Optionally, slather slices with butter, swipe with garlic spread, or dunk into warm marinara sauce. However you serve it, you’ll love the aroma and flavor of homemade Cheese Bread—share if you want, or keep it all to yourself (we won’t judge)!
How to Serve Cheese Bread
Garnishes
For a flavor and color boost, try topping your Cheese Bread with freshly chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes just before serving. These simple touches turn each slice into a little party, adding freshness and a pop of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese.
Side Dishes
Pair Cheese Bread with creamy tomato soup, a crisp salad, or roasted veggies to make it a satisfying meal. It also shines alongside classic pasta dishes, chili, or as a base for open-faced sandwiches. The possibilities truly are endless and make every meal feel just a bit more special.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, cut the loaf into cubes for a bread basket, or make mini Cheese Bread muffins using a muffin tin. You can also serve thick slices with a selection of dips—think garlic aioli, pesto, or warm marinara—for a crowd-pleasing appetizer platter that vanishes in minutes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Cheese Bread has cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The bread stays moist and flavorful, just right for quick snacks or impromptu sandwiches. If your kitchen is especially warm, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This loaf freezes like a dream! Slice it first for easy grab-and-go portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. Cheese Bread stays tasty for up to three months—just be sure to label the date so you never lose track of your homemade stash.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked taste and texture, reheat individual slices or the whole loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. This brings back the crisp exterior and melts the cheese deliciously, making it taste as fresh as day one. Avoid microwaving, which can make it rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in Cheese Bread?
Absolutely! Mixing cheddar and mozzarella is a classic combo, but any good melting cheese works—try Gruyere, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for added depth. Go with what you love or have on hand!
Can I make Cheese Bread gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just check your baking powder to ensure it’s gluten-free, and the rest of the recipe stays the same. The texture might be slightly different, but it’s still delicious.
What’s the best way to get a cheesy crust on top?
For a truly golden, bubbly top, sprinkle extra shredded cheese over the batter just before baking. You can gently press it in so it stays put. For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or black pepper for color and a little zing.
Can I add extras to the Cheese Bread, like bacon or jalapeños?
Definitely! Finely chopped cooked bacon, sliced jalapeños, caramelized onions, or sundried tomatoes mix in beautifully. Just keep extras to about ½ cup and fold them in after adding the cheese. It’s a fun way to personalize your loaf!
Is this recipe suited for muffins or mini loaves?
Yes—just portion the batter into a greased muffin tin or mini loaf pans, reducing the baking time to 15–20 minutes for muffins. Check for doneness with a toothpick, and enjoy perfectly portioned Cheese Bread on the go!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like homemade Cheese Bread—it’s a recipe that brings comfort, creates smiles, and tastes even better when shared. I hope you give it a try the next time you want to make something special without any fuss. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your friends and family will thank you for every cheesy, warm slice!
Print
Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese Bread recipe is a savory delight, combining the rich flavors of cheese with aromatic herbs and garlic. It’s easy to make and perfect for serving as a side or snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or thyme, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Whisk until well mixed.
- Add Cheese: Fold in the shredded cheese until coated with the flour mixture.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and egg until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
- Prepare Loaf Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, or line with parchment paper.
- Add Batter: Transfer batter into the loaf pan, smoothing the top. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool and Slice: Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice with a serrated knife.
- Serve: Enjoy the bread on its own or with butter, garlic spread, or marinara sauce.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: cheese bread, savory bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe
