If you’re on the hunt for a warm, comforting, and utterly irresistible bread that bursts with flavor in every bite, you have to try this Cheese Bread Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, gooey mozzarella, and a hint of Parmesan that comes together in a tender, golden loaf. Whether you’re looking for a fancy side for dinner or a delicious snack to keep you cozy on a chilly day, this cheese bread offers cheesy goodness with a moist, fluffy texture that will make you reach for seconds — or thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheese Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient works in harmony to create the perfect loaf. From the sturdy base of all-purpose flour to the gooey mix of cheeses, every element is essential for that mouthwatering taste and texture.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the soft, fluffy structure of the bread, holding all the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: A gentle leavening agent to help the bread rise just right without heaviness.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the cheesy richness.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle savory depth that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Infuses richness and a tender crumb to the bread.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show with its sharp and tangy flavor.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Contributes melty moisture and stretches those glorious cheese pulls.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and helps bind everything together.
- 1 large egg: Adds structure and richness for a perfect bread texture.
- 1 tsp dried parsley (optional): Gives a fresh color contrast and light herbal note.
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping): Creates a golden, flavorful crust with an extra punch of umami.
How to Make Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cheese bread bakes evenly and develops that beautiful golden crust. Don’t forget to grease your loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper to make sure your bread slides out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and optional garlic powder. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening and seasoning, which will ensure every bite bursts with flavor and rises nicely without any clumps.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, milk, and egg until well combined and smooth. The melted butter adds a richness that makes the bread tender, while the egg helps with structure. Mixing these separately helps create a smooth batter when combined with the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
Now, fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the wet ingredients. This is where the magic happens—the cheddar brings bold flavor while mozzarella provides that signature cheesy stretch that makes this bread so special.
Step 5: Combine the Batter
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as that can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy. A few lumps are perfectly fine here!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. If you like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and dried parsley on top for a crust that’s not only golden and crisp but packed with extra flavor and a pop of color. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once your cheese bread is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting step helps the loaf set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or enjoy slightly warm for the best cheesy experience.
How to Serve Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnishing goes a long way when serving this cheese bread. Sprinkle some fresh herbs like chopped chives or more dried parsley for a fresh brightness. A brush of melted butter right after baking can add an extra glossy touch and enhance flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This cheese bread pairs beautifully with soups and salads. Imagine dipping a warm slice into a tangy tomato bisque or alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette—the savory bread perfectly complements lighter, fresher dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow your guests? Slice the cheese bread into thick rounds and serve with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, creamy ranch, or a spicy honey mustard. You could even turn slices into mini open-faced sandwiches loaded with your favorite toppings for a fun appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra cheese bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the loaf moist and prevents it from drying out. For best taste, try to enjoy leftovers within this window.
Freezing
To keep your delicious cheese bread longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes to revive that fresh-baked texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but might soften the crust, so it’s best reserved for when you’re craving speed over crispness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella give a great balance of flavor and meltiness, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or smoked cheeses for an exciting twist.
Is this cheese bread gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as is. However, substituting with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking could work, but results may vary in texture.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
You can try substituting butter with a plant-based alternative and using dairy-free cheeses and milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change since real cheese is key to this recipe’s charm.
How do I prevent the cheese from sinking to the bottom?
Coat your shredded cheese lightly with a bit of flour before mixing it into the batter. This small trick helps keep the cheese suspended evenly throughout the bread.
Can I make mini cheese bread muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Simply divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and reduce baking time to about 15-20 minutes. It’s a fun way to enjoy portable, snack-sized cheese breads.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Bread Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, reliable, and packed with so much cheesy love that it’s hard to resist. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a staple at your table, perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve something delicious today.
Print
Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This savory Cheese Bread combines the rich flavors of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses baked into a tender, fluffy loaf. Perfect as a snack, alongside soups, or for breakfast, this bread is simple to make with basic pantry ingredients and offers a delicious, cheesy twist on traditional quick bread.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Other
- 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and optional garlic powder until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted unsalted butter, milk, and large egg until smooth and fully blended.
- Add the Cheese: Stir the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the wet ingredients mixture, ensuring an even distribution of cheese throughout.
- Combine Everything: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and light.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and dried parsley on top if using for extra flavor and a golden crust. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the surface is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the garlic powder to ½ tsp or add minced fresh garlic to the wet ingredients.
- Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a balance of sharpness and melty texture, but feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses.
- Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing to ensure clean cuts and better texture.
- You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor variations.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in a toaster or oven for a warm, melty snack.
