Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe

If you are looking for a savory, delightful treat that comes together quickly without waiting for yeast to work its magic, this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) is an absolute must-try. Packed with melty cheese, fresh herbs, and a bold garlic punch, it offers a wonderfully rustic loaf that’s golden, aromatic, and perfect to serve alongside nearly any meal or as a snack in its own right. Its tender crumb and rich flavors will make it a go-to recipe for when you want homemade bread without the fuss of yeast or long rising times.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it relies on simple but essential ingredients, each contributing something special: the cheese for gooey richness and bite, the fresh herbs and garlic for vibrant flavor, and the combination of yogurt and milk for moisture and tenderness. Together, they create a quick bread that bursts with aroma and texture after just a short bake.

• Cheese (200 grams): Using cheddar or tasty cheese sliced thinly adds melty pockets and rustic layers throughout the bread.
• Fresh rosemary (2 tablespoons): Finely chopped to infuse the bread with fragrant woodsy notes.
• Fresh parsley leaves (2 tablespoons): Adds a bright, fresh green contrast and a mild herbal flavor.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Contributes a subtle Mediterranean earthiness.
• Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Offers a delicate herbal depth.
• Garlic cloves (4 total): Crushed or grated for a fragrant, savory punch integrated throughout.
• Extra virgin olive oil (5 tablespoons total): Adds richness and helps keep the bread moist.
• Cooking salt (about 1¼ teaspoons total): Enhances all the flavors while balancing sweetness from the dairy.
• Plain flour (2¼ cups): The sturdy base creating the bread’s tender crumb.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Acts as the quick leavening agent, making yeast unnecessary.
• Plain yogurt (½ cup): Adds moisture and a subtle tang for softness.
• Full-fat milk (¾ cup): Keeps the texture rich and tender.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness.
• Unsalted butter (50 grams, melted): Adds buttery flavor and moistness.

How to Make Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), ensuring it’s ready for either fan or conventional settings. Lightly grease your loaf pan and line it with baking paper; this step is important for ensuring your quick bread releases easily with perfectly defined edges and no sticking. A well-prepared pan sets you up for success before mixing begins.

Step 2: Create the Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped rosemary, parsley, dried oregano, dried thyme, crushed garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and salt. Stir until the mixture comes together in a thick, dollop-able paste. This herb blend is where so much of the bread’s aromatic magic lives—each spoonful guarantees a robust pop of fragrance and herbal intensity.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Into a medium bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking soda (or baking powder if preferred), and salt. Whisking these ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt, which is crucial for a loaf that rises consistently and tastes balanced.

Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend the plain yogurt, milk, eggs, melted butter, olive oil, and additional crushed garlic until smooth and uniformly combined. This mixture will bring richness and moisture, offering a tender crumb and complementing the sharpness from cheese and the freshness from herbs.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Make a well in your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently fold the two together just until combined—don’t overmix! Minimal mixing keeps the crumb light and stops the bread from becoming dense. You want a batter with just a few flour strands visible.

Step 6: Layer the Batter, Herbs, and Cheese

Pour about one-third of the batter into your prepared pan. Spoon a third of the herb mixture evenly over it and swirl gently with a knife to create lovely marbled patterns. Then tuck in one-third of the cheese slices randomly—some submerged, some peeking out—to form gooey pockets and visual interest. Repeat these layers twice more, building the bread with delicious layers.

Step 7: Bake the Bread to Golden Perfection

Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until it’s golden on top. Cover loosely with foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes. This two-stage bake locks in moisture, ensuring the bread is cooked thoroughly without drying out. Insert a skewer into the center at the end; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

Allow the bread to rest in the pan for five minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool at least 10 more minutes. This resting time helps the crumb settle and makes slicing easier. Serve it warm or at room temperature with an optional spread of butter for the ultimate indulgence.

How to Serve Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast)

Garnishes

A simple brush of melted butter or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over warm slices elevates this bread beautifully. You can also sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of flaky sea salt to add a bright finish that heightens the flavors and makes each bite feel like a special treat.

Side Dishes

This bread is incredibly versatile alongside soups, salads, or stews. Try it with a hearty tomato soup or alongside a vibrant green salad for a casual lunch or dinner. Its compliments earthy, cheesy, and herbaceous notes meld harmoniously with many dishes, making it a perfect companion to a wide range of meals.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing and serving as part of a cheese platter with olives, cured meats, and fresh fruit for a cozy gathering. Or lightly toast slices and top them with smashed avocado or a dollop of ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant snack. It also works beautifully cut into cubes, skewered with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for an easy appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bread moist and flavorful. For best texture, bring to room temperature before serving if it has been refrigerated.

Freezing

Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) freezes well! Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. This makes it a convenient make-ahead option for busy days.

Reheating

To refresh the bread’s texture, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. This helps revive that fresh-baked aroma and melts the cheese again.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this bread?

Absolutely! Cheddar and tasty cheese work wonderfully, but you can experiment with mozzarella for gooeyness, feta for tanginess, or even a sharp gouda to vary the flavor. Just slice the cheese about 3 millimeters thick for layering.

What if I don’t have baking soda? Can I use baking powder?

Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 3½ teaspoons of baking powder. The bread will still rise nicely, though the flavor might be slightly different due to the acidity balance.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. Just ensure your cheese is free from animal rennet if you require strict vegetarian options.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

To adapt to dairy-free needs, substitute the milk and yogurt with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut yogurt. Use a dairy-free butter substitute as well. The texture may change slightly, but it remains delicious.

How long does the quick bread keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, this bread is best eaten within two days to enjoy its peak flavor and texture. Refrigeration extends shelf life but can dry it out, so reheating is recommended to bring back softness.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about creating a loaf that is bursting with flavor, takes no time to rise, and fills your home with an irresistible aroma. This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) is just that: a quick, tasty, comforting bread that invites you to pause, slice generously, and share moments with loved ones. I wholeheartedly encourage you to bake this soon—it might just become your new bread obsession!

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