Herb & Cheese Quick Bread: A Savory Delight in Just One Hour

 Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tbsp baking powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup whole milk

2 large eggs

1/4 cup olive oil

Add-ins:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Optional Topping:

2 tbsp melted butter for brushing the top

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Prepare the Ingredients: Shred the cheddar cheese and grate the Parmesan. Chop the fresh herbs and set them aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and olive oil until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Add the Cheese and Herbs

Mix Everything Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add the Cheese and Herbs: Fold in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, parsley, thyme, and chives. The batter will be thick.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Transfer to the Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Optional Topping

Brush with Butter: If desired, brush the top of the warm bread with melted butter for extra richness.

How to Prepare:

Storage: Store any leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with butter or alongside soups, stews, or a fresh salad.

Preparation Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes