Cheddar Cheese Bread: A Savory Homemade Loaf Bursting with Flavor

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Cheddar Cheese Bread: A Savory Homemade Loaf Bursting with Flavor

Cheddar Cheese Bread is the perfect blend of rich, cheesy goodness and soft, buttery texture—all baked into a warm, golden loaf. Whether served alongside soup, as a snack, or toasted for breakfast, this easy quick bread recipe delivers comforting flavor in every bite. Made with pantry staples and loaded with sharp cheddar, it’s a must-bake for cheese lovers and home bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Cheese Bread

  • No yeast required – It’s a quick bread, so there’s no need to wait for dough to rise.
  • Simple ingredients – Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
  • Customizable – Add herbs, spices, or even jalapeños for a flavor twist.
  • Perfect texture – A crisp golden crust with a moist, cheesy crumb inside.

Ingredients for Cheddar Cheese Bread

This recipe is straightforward and uses basic baking ingredients enhanced with garlic and cheese:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1¼ cups whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Optional add-ins: chopped chives, parsley, crumbled cooked bacon, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheddar Cheese Bread

1. Preheat and Prep

  • 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:
    • Flour
    • Baking powder
    • Sugar
    • Garlic powder
    • Salt
    • Black pepper

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk:
    • Milk
    • Egg
    • Melted butter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined—do not overmix.

4. Fold in the Cheese

  • Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Reserve the remaining ½ cup to sprinkle on top before baking.

5. Pour and Bake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  • Sprinkle the top with the reserved cheese for a golden, bubbly crust.
  • Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Slice

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

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Bread

  • Use sharp or extra sharp cheddar for bold flavor that stands out.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture.
  • For extra moisture, you can substitute part of the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  • Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to avoid crumbling.

Flavor Variations

1. Herb & Cheddar Bread

Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme to the batter.

2. Bacon Cheddar Bread

Stir in ½ cup of cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.

3. Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

Fold in ¼ cup of diced jalapeños for a bold kick.

4. Italian Cheddar Bread

Mix in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and serve with marinara for dipping.

What to Serve with Cheddar Cheese Bread

  • Soups & Stews: Especially delicious with tomato soup, chili, or vegetable soup.
  • Breakfast: Toast a slice and serve with scrambled eggs or avocado.
  • Sandwiches: Use as the base for a grilled cheese or breakfast sandwich.
  • Snacks: Serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Storage

  • Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer shelf life.

Freezing

  • Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw at room temperature, then reheat slices in the toaster or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts better and provides superior texture and flavor.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes! Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Results may vary slightly depending on the brand.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice – Approx. 10 slices)

  • Calories: 210
  • Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and serving sizes.

Conclusion: Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bread at Its Best

Warm, cheesy, and easy to make, this Cheddar Cheese Bread recipe is the ultimate addition to any home baker’s rotation. With its golden crust, gooey cheddar pockets, and a subtle hint of garlic, it’s a flavorful crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with meals or stands alone as a satisfying snack.

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