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CHEESE BREAD

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Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked loaf of bread, especially when it’s infused with the rich, savory taste of cheddar cheese. This Decadent Cheddar Quick Bread is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a deliciously satisfying treat. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, alongside a hearty soup, or as part of a weekend brunch, this quick bread is sure to become a favorite. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 40 minutes, you can have this cheesy delight ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

Preparing the Dry Ingredients

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if using).

Mixing the Batter

  1. Add the Cheese
    Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
    Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.

Baking the Bread

  1. Transfer to Pan
    Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  2. Bake
    Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool
    Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

  • Measuring Flour: Spoon and level the flour to avoid using too much, which can make the bread dense.
  • Cheese Choice: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
  • Flavor Enhancers: Adding garlic powder and dried thyme is optional but recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to ensure a light and tender bread.
  • Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the bread without sticking.
  • Cooling: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
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Serving Suggestions

This Cheddar Quick Bread is versatile and can be served in many ways:

  • Soup Companion: Perfect alongside a bowl of tomato soup or chili.
  • Breakfast Treat: Toast a slice and top with butter or a poached egg.
  • Snack: Enjoy a slice on its own or with a spread of cream cheese.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind the bread may be denser and have a nuttier flavor. You might want to start with a 50/50 blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to balance texture and taste.

Can I add other ingredients to this bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like chopped jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.

How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can make this bread gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust flavor, but you can use mild or medium cheddar if you prefer a subtler taste. Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient but may contain additives that affect texture, so freshly grated cheese is often best.

This Decadent Cheddar Quick Bread is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, quick, and guaranteed to please. Enjoy!

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