I’ve tested dozens of quick bread recipes through the years from sweet loaves to breakfast ready versions but few deliver the same savory satisfaction that this one does. Whether I’m serving it warm with butter for breakfast or pairing it with a smoky chili, it never fails to impress.

• Ready in under an hour: Mix and bake in just about 45 minutes total.
• No rising or kneading: Skip the yeast, this bread gets its lift from baking powder.
• Customizable flavor: Add herbs, spices, or other cheeses to suit your mood.
• Perfect texture: Moist inside with a golden, slightly crisp crust.
• Pairs with everything: From hearty stews to fresh green salads or even fried eggs.

Looking for another savory bake that’s easy and no fuss? Try our cheese potato bread or the buttery dinner rolls they’re both comforting and quick, just like this one.

Step by Step to Make Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Instructions That Never Fail

1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder (if using).
• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully coated this helps prevent clumping.

3: Mix Wet Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and honey until smooth.

4: Combine Wet and Dry

• Pour the wet mixture into the dry and gently stir until just combined. Don’t overmix, or your bread may turn dense.

5: Bake the Bread

• Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

6: Cool and Slice

• Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
• Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Smart Tips for Better Cheddar Bread

From My Test Kitchen to Yours

Even a simple recipe can be elevated with a few smart moves. After making hundreds of loaves for events, cafes, and home clients, here’s what always makes this quick bread even better:

• Use fresh cheddar: Pre shredded cheese contains anti caking agents that can mess with texture. Grate your own for best melt and flavor.
• Add a kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or chopped green onions for a zesty twist.
• Switch up the cheese: Mix half cheddar and half pepper jack or mozzarella for layered flavor.
• Sprinkle on top: Add extra shredded cheese to the top before baking for a crusty, cheesy finish.

Creative Variations You’ll Love

Twist It Your Way Every Time

One thing I love about this cheddar cheese quick bread is how versatile the base recipe is. Once you’ve got the ratios right, you can remix the flavors however you like. Sometimes I bake a classic loaf, other times I dress it up for brunch or spicy dinner pairings.

• Herb Explosion: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary, thyme, or chives to the batter for a bakery style herbed loaf.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ cup of finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for warmth and boldness.
• Smoky Version: Use smoked cheddar or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the dry mix for deep, earthy flavor.
• Cheese Medley: Combine shredded parmesan, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar for a rich and gooey bite.
• Sweet Meets Savory: Drizzle honey butter over the warm loaf just before serving for a beautiful flavor contrast.

This quick bread also makes a great companion to bold dishes like our crispy chicken or even something unexpected like fluffy pancakes on a savory brunch platter.

Ingredient Swap

When You’re Out of Something No Panic

Sometimes I get halfway through prep only to realize I’m missing a key ingredient. That’s why I’ve built this reliable swap table. These substitutions keep the flavor rich and the texture tender even if you don’t have every item on hand:

If You Don’t Have	Swap With	Effect on Bread
Cheddar Cheese	Monterey Jack or Colby	Milder flavor, slightly softer bite
All Purpose Flour	Whole wheat flour (use 1¾ cups)	Heartier texture, more fiber
Honey	Maple syrup or brown sugar	Similar sweetness, slightly deeper flavor
Garlic Powder	Onion powder or smoked paprika	Different spice profile, still savory
Milk	Buttermilk or unsweetened yogurt + water	More tangy, helps with rise

I’ve made this bread with Greek yogurt when I ran out of milk, and honestly, the result was deliciously moist. It’s forgiving, adaptable, and flexible exactly what you need on a busy weeknight.