Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread with a Golden, Savory Crust Recipe

Golden Herb & Cheese Bread: A Fluffy Homemade Recipe

Crafting a soft, fluffy herb and cheese bread becomes a delightful culinary adventure that transforms your kitchen into a fragrant sanctuary.

Aromatic herbs and melted cheese weave magic through every delectable slice.

Comfort mingles with sophistication in this simple yet elegant creation.

Mediterranean traditions inspire each carefully selected ingredient.

Home bakers will adore the straightforward technique that yields professional-quality results.

Crisp golden edges promise a sensory experience that beckons you to slice, share, and savor every delicious morsel.

Why Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust Is So Good

  • Simplify Baking: Create a delicious herb and cheese bread with minimal kitchen skills, perfect for novice bakers wanting to impress family and friends.
  • Versatile Meal Companion: Serve alongside soups, salads, or as a standalone snack that complements various dining experiences from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties.
  • Quick Preparation: Mix ingredients in two bowls, combine, and bake – no complex techniques or special equipment required, making this recipe stress-free and accessible for home cooks.
  • Flavor-Packed Comfort: Infuse your kitchen with aromatic herbs and rich cheese, delivering a warm, satisfying bread that feels like a homemade treasure with every bite.

What’s In Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust

Dry Ingredients:
  • All Purpose Flour: A foundational ingredient that provides structure to the bread.
  • Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps with browning.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
Cheese and Herbs:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture to the bread.
  • Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary: Fresh herbs that bring a fragrant and savory dimension to the bread.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Milk, Eggs, Melted Butter: These ingredients provide moisture, richness, and help bind the bread together, creating a soft and tender crumb.

Bake Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust Like A Pro

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Ensure all dry components are well combined and free of lumps.

Step 3: Add Cheesy Herb Mixture

Fold into the dry ingredients:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Crumbled dried thyme
  • Finely minced rosemary

Stir until herbs and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.

Step 4: Blend Wet Components

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Whole milk
  • Melted unsalted butter
  • Large eggs

Mix until the liquid ingredients create a smooth, consistent texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Gently stir until just combined. Stop mixing as soon as no flour streaks remain to keep the bread tender.

Step 6: Fill Loaf Pan

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, creating a smooth top surface.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Carefully transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips That Help Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust Shine

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and even incorporation of flavors.
  • Gently fold herbs and cheese into the flour mixture to prevent clumping and maintain an even distribution.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread light and tender; stop stirring once ingredients are just combined.
  • Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top before baking for a crispy, golden crust that adds extra flavor and texture.
  • Store bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation.

Fun Swaps For Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust

  • Mediterranean Olive Bread: Replace herbs with chopped kalamata olives, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Greek-inspired savory bread.
  • Jalapeño Cheddar Bread: Mix in diced jalapeños and extra sharp cheddar cheese for a spicy kick, creating a zesty and bold flavor profile.
  • Roasted Garlic and Herb Bread: Incorporate roasted garlic cloves and increase the herb quantity, using a blend of fresh basil and chives for an aromatic, rich taste.
  • Sundried Tomato and Parmesan Bread: Fold in chopped sundried tomatoes and grated parmesan cheese, adding a tangy and nutty dimension to the classic bread recipe.

Best Pairings For Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust

  • Pair with Vibrant Wine Selection: Complement the herb-infused bread with a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will enhance the cheese and herbal notes.
  • Create Delightful Soup Companion: Serve alongside a creamy tomato basil soup or a light butternut squash bisque to elevate the bread's savory profile and provide a warming meal experience.
  • Design Charcuterie Board Match: Layer thin slices of this bread with cured meats like prosciutto, aged salami, and soft cheeses to create a rustic, elegant appetizer spread that highlights the bread's rich flavors.

Storing Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust Made Simple

  • Refrigerator Storage: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Freezer Storage: Slice the bread completely, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum flavor preservation.
  • Countertop Storage: Store at room temperature in a sealed container or bread box for 2-3 days, keeping away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent staleness.
  • Reheating Method: Warm individual slices in a toaster or toaster oven for crispy edges.

Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread With A Golden, Savory Crust FAQ Guide

  • Can I use different herbs in this bread recipe?

Yes, you can swap parsley, thyme, and rosemary with other fresh or dried herbs like chives, dill, or basil to create your own unique flavor profile.

  • What type of cheese works best for this bread?

Cheddar is recommended, but you can also use other semi-hard cheeses like gruyère, monterey jack, or gouda for similar delicious results.

  • Is this bread suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward and requires basic mixing skills, making it perfect for home bakers with little to no experience in bread making.

  • Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a gluten-free version of this savory herb and cheese bread.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread with a Golden, Savory Crust Recipe

Soft, Fluffy Herb & Cheese Bread with a Golden, Savory Crust Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Homemade Herb & Cheese Bread delivers comfort straight from Mediterranean kitchens, promising rich flavors and aromatic delight. Warm slices invite you to savor each delectable bite of this soul-satisfying culinary creation.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 large eggs

Herbs:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chopped fresh rosemary

Dry Ingredients and Additions:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and coat a 9×5 inch loaf pan with grease to ensure easy bread removal.
  2. Combine all dry ingredients in a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blending flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt into a uniform mixture.
  3. Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped herbs (parsley, thyme, and rosemary) into the dry mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.
  4. In a separate container, whisk milk, melted butter, and eggs until they form a smooth, well-integrated liquid blend.
  5. Gently fold the liquid ingredients into the dry herb-cheese mixture, stirring minimally to prevent toughening the bread’s texture.
  6. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface to create an even layer for consistent baking.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, monitoring until the top transforms into a rich golden-brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center emerges completely clean.
  8. Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling and optimal texture development.

Notes

  • Swap herbs to match your taste preferences, trying combinations like dill and chives or basil and oregano for unique flavor profiles.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to maintain the bread’s tender texture.
  • Enhance moisture by adding grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach, which also boosts nutritional value and creates a more complex taste.
  • Prevent dense texture by using room temperature ingredients and mixing just until combined, ensuring light and airy bread with a tender crumb.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star