Cheese Bread is the ultimate comfort food—warm, bursting with a blend of melty cheeses, and satisfyingly savory with a tender, fluffy crumb. It’s that magical loaf you can throw together quickly for a rustic dinner side, slice up for an afternoon snack, or use as the centerpiece of a delicious, cheesy brunch. With its simple ingredient list and bold flavors, there’s a reason why everyone who tries this cheese-dappled delight keeps coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cheese Bread is how simple, yet essential, each ingredient is. Every single one offers a layer of flavor, texture, or down-home goodness, so don’t skip a thing—your tastebuds will thank you!
- All-purpose flour: The trusty base that gives the bread structure while keeping it tender.
- Baking powder: This is your lift! It makes the loaf rise and gives it a light, soft crumb.
- Salt: Essential for balancing the cheese and bringing the flavors together.
- Garlic powder: A subtle way to up the savory factor without overwhelming the bread.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): The heart and soul of Cheese Bread, lending richness and irresistible gooey pockets in every bite.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): For those nutty, salty edges that make the crust so moreish.
- Fresh chives (optional): A pop of color and mild oniony bite—highly recommended if you have them!
- Whole milk: Adds just the right amount of moisture for a soft, luscious texture.
- Sour cream: This secret weapon makes the loaf extra tender, with a touch of tanginess to brighten up the cheese.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Butter brings richness to every crumb and helps brown the crust for that golden hue.
- Large egg: This is your binder—egg gives structure and helps the bread slice neatly.
How to Make Cheese Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s hot and ready when your batter is. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously—either with butter or nonstick spray—to prevent any cheesy edges from sticking. This extra step guarantees you’ll get that perfect loaf release at the end.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. These dry ingredients lay down the foundation of texture and taste, ensuring every slice of Cheese Bread has that fluffy-meets-satisfying bite and a hint of garlic warmth in the background.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Chives
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, and those vibrant chives if you’re using them. This move evenly distributes all that cheesy goodness throughout your loaf and stones it with bits of melted cheese and herby bursts in every bite. Nothing says “homemade” like a loaf studded with real cheese!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sour cream, melted butter, and egg until everything is smooth and creamy. This rich mixture will moisturize and bind the dry ingredients while adding a subtle tanginess from the sour cream.
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Gently pour the wet ingredients into your dry mixture. Stir everything together until just combined—it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy! Overmixing will make the bread tough, and we want our Cheese Bread to stay light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer your batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is a tempting golden brown and a toothpick poked into the center comes out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and remove it carefully. Move to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing (if you can resist!).
How to Serve Cheese Bread
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped chives, a dusting of Parmesan, or even a little melted butter brushed on top can take Cheese Bread from rustic to irresistible. Fresh herbs or a pinch of flaky sea salt add brightness and crunch—experiment to find your signature finish!
Side Dishes
Cheese Bread pairs beautifully with soups and stews—especially tomato basil, creamy broccoli, or a spicy chili. It’s also lovely alongside a crisp salad or tucked into a picnic basket with a charcuterie spread. However you serve it, expect every crumb to disappear quickly!
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your cooled loaf and toasting individual pieces under the broiler with a touch more cheese for “open-faced cheese melts.” Or serve mini slices stacked as party bites with a dollop of herbed cream cheese. You can even turn day-old slices into garlicky croutons that are positively addictive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap cooled Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen runs warm, pop it in the fridge to keep it fresh; just bring slices to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
To freeze, let your bread cool completely, then slice it and wrap individual pieces or the whole loaf in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months. This makes it easy to grab only what you need and keeps your Cheese Bread from getting freezer burn.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat slices in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 325°F until warmed through—about 8 to 10 minutes. Microwaving will work in a pinch but may soften the crust. If you want that just-baked aroma, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! The recipe is really flexible—Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a smoked gouda all work beautifully. Feel free to try mixtures, but keep the quantities similar to ensure the bread keeps its structure.
How do I prevent my Cheese Bread from turning out dense?
The key is to avoid overmixing the batter after you add the wet ingredients to the dry. Mix just until you can’t see any dry flour; lumps are totally okay. This gentle approach keeps your loaf airy and tender.
What’s the best way to get that golden, cheesy crust on top?
If you’re after an extra-crispy, cheesy top, sprinkle a little more shredded cheddar or Parmesan before baking. For best results, use the middle oven rack and avoid over-baking, which can dry out the loaf.
Can I make this Cheese Bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour, and check all your other ingredient labels. The loaf may be a bit more delicate but still deliciously cheesy.
Is it possible to add more flavors or ingredients?
Definitely! Try tossing in cooked bacon, roasted jalapeños, caramelized onions, or dried Italian herbs for a personal twist. This recipe adapts easily to whatever’s in your fridge or pantry craving a starring role.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Cheese Bread wafting from your oven and the joy of slicing into a golden, cheese-laced loaf. Whether you’re a bread-baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is truly a keeper. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and share a warm, cheesy slice with someone you love!
Print
Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cheesy goodness of this savory quick bread that’s perfect as a side dish or a snack. Loaded with sharp cheddar and Parmesan, this cheese bread is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Add cheddar, Parmesan, and chives.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, sour cream, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry; stir gently. Do not overmix.
- Bake: Transfer batter to pan, bake for 45-50 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Cool bread in pan for 10 mins, then cool on a rack before slicing.
Notes
- You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
- Enhance with jalapeños or bacon for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
