If you’re looking for a delicious, foolproof loaf to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen, look no further than this Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread. Imagine a golden crust infused with rich, sharp cheddar and just a hint of garlic—each bite delivers a soft, savory crumb bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this simple recipe will make your kitchen smell heavenly and quickly become one of your top comfort food go-tos!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread is just how straightforward the ingredient list is—nothing fancy, only everyday staples that each play an important part. These basics come together for unforgettable flavor and a perfectly tender loaf. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your loaf, creating the soft, springy structure everyone loves.
- Baking powder: This ensures your bread rises beautifully and gets that signature dome.
- Salt: Brings out the savoriness and balances the sharpness of the cheddar.
- Garlic powder (optional): Adds a gentle aromatic kick for extra depth—feel free to skip or use more!
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient, lending bold cheesy pockets and golden color throughout.
- Milk: Binds the dough and keeps every slice moist and tender.
- Large egg: Adds richness and helps the loaf hold together.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Makes the crumb velvety and gives a hint of buttery flavor in each bite.
- Chopped chives or green onions (optional): Sprinkle in a pop of color and mild oniony flavor—totally optional, but highly recommended for that extra wow factor.
How to Make Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures every slice of Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread releases cleanly without sticking, so don’t skimp!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder (if using). This step evenly distributes the leavening agent and seasonings throughout the flour, setting the stage for a fluffy, perfectly seasoned loaf.
Step 3: Add the Cheddar and Chives
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and any chopped chives or green onions. Tossing them with the flour keeps the cheese and greens from sinking to the bottom, so you’ll get a bite of cheesy goodness in every piece.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted (slightly cooled) unsalted butter until well combined. This simple blend ensures your bread will bake up rich and moist, holding together beautifully.
Step 5: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, then gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Don’t over-mix! A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine—this prevents a tough loaf and guarantees a tender crumb for your Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Slide it into the preheated oven, and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let your finished bread rest in the pan for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This extra step ensures the crust stays crisp and the inside remains soft—sheer perfection! Once cool, slice and serve your beautiful Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread.
How to Serve Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread
Garnishes
Dress up your loaf with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar on top just before baking, or scatter on some fresh chopped chives after it comes out of the oven. Both options boost presentation and add flavor, making each slice pop with color and cheesiness.
Side Dishes
Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread is a dream alongside cozy favorites like tomato soup, chili, or a hearty stew. Serve it toasted for breakfast with scrambled eggs, or use it to soak up all the goodness in your favorite comfort meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, cut the loaf into cubes and serve with a homemade cheese dip or herby butter. Or slice and toast pieces for a rustic sandwich base—the savory flavor pairs especially well with ham, turkey, or roasted veggies!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread at its best, wrap cooled slices in foil or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature, retaining their moisture and bold flavor.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter, and your bread will taste almost as good as fresh-baked.
Reheating
Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes or quickly toast them in a skillet for irresistible crispiness. You’ll revive that cheesy aroma and just-baked texture in no time—an ideal way to enjoy leftover Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! Try a cheese blend with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just keep the total cheese amount the same for best results.
What if I don’t have chives or green onions?
No worries—the bread is still flavorful without them. You can also substitute a sprinkle of dried herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for a hint of green and added flavor.
How do I know when the bread is done?
The top should be deeply golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Can I make this Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for similar results. Just keep an eye on baking time, as gluten-free breads sometimes need a few extra minutes.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Definitely! Make two loaves for a crowd by doubling all the ingredients. Bake both pans at the same temperature, and rotate them halfway through to ensure even baking.
Final Thoughts
With its unbeatable combination of rich cheese, comforting texture, and easy prep, this Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread is a baking win for anyone. Give it a try—even just once—and you’ll find yourself coming back to this cozy, crowd-pleasing loaf again and again!
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Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cheddar Cheese Bread recipe is a delightful savory quick bread that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with sharp cheddar cheese and optional garlic and chives, this cheesy loaf is a versatile and flavorful addition to your table.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Add cheddar cheese and chives.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into loaf pan, bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar with a cheese blend or add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- This bread pairs well with soups, stews, or as a savory breakfast option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
