Decadent Cheddar Quick Bread: A Warm, Cheesy Embrace

Introduction

Experience the comforting allure of homemade bread with our Decadent Cheddar Quick Bread recipe. This simple recipe requires minimal preparation and is ready in just under an hour, perfect for any level of baking experience. Combining the sharp, robust flavors of freshly shredded cheddar cheese with the rich, buttery texture typical of artisan breads, this quick bread is a versatile favorite. Whether served as a hearty side, a savory sandwich base, or enjoyed on its own, this easy, cheesy delight is sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

Bread Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
• A pinch of onion powder
• A pinch of dried parsley

Preparation Method

Preparing the Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This mixture will ensure your bread is light and airy.
3. Add Cheese: Incorporate the freshly shredded cheddar cheese into the flour mixture to evenly distribute it throughout the dough.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Stir this into the dry ingredients until just combined to maintain tenderness.
5. Incorporate Melted Butter: Mix in the melted butter until the dough is uniformly moistened, enhancing the bread’s moist, delicious texture.
6. Bake the Bread: Pour the dough into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Preparing the Topping:

1. Mix Topping Ingredients: Combine the melted butter, garlic powder, sea salt, onion powder, and dried parsley in a small bowl.
2. Apply Topping: Brush the topping over the hot bread as soon as it comes out of the oven to add a flavorful, glossy finish.
3. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, making it easier to slice.

Conclusion

Decadent Cheddar Quick Bread is an ode to the joys of easy baking at home. With its indulgent, cheesy flavor and soft, buttery crumb, this bread is sure to be a hit. Perfect for any dinner, as a creative sandwich starter, or simply enjoyed with butter, this quick bread recipe offers a delicious, comforting treat. Embrace the simplicity and satisfaction of baking with this cheesy, homemade delight—a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.