There is nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of homemade bread fresh from the oven, especially when it bursts with vibrant flavors. This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe is one of my absolute favorites to whip up when time is short, but I still crave something comforting and wonderfully savory. It’s a no-fuss, no-yeast bread that feels indulgent yet simple, with layers of sharp cheese, fragrant herbs, and garlic that come together to create an unbelievably moist and flavorful loaf. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite soup or just enjoying it warm with butter, this bread is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in building the bread’s texture, aroma, and taste—from the creamy sharpness of the cheese to the bright herbaceous punch from fresh rosemary and parsley.
- Cheese (200g): Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese for different textures and flavors.
- Fresh rosemary (2 tbsp): Adds a woody, pine-like fragrance that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp): Brightens the bread with a fresh, slightly peppery note.
- Garlic cloves (2): Minced for that unmistakable savory punch that garlic lovers adore.
- Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Provides moisture and richness, making each bite tender.
- Plain flour (2¼ cups): The foundation of the bread’s structure, lending a soft crumb.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): The quick bread leavening agent, creating a light rise without yeast.
- Plain yogurt (½ cup): Adds tanginess and moisture, helping to keep the bread tender and fresh.
- Full-fat milk (¾ cup): Balances the batter for softness and richness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind all ingredients together while contributing to the bread’s lift.
How to Make Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease or line a loaf pan to ensure your bread bakes evenly and releases effortlessly. This step sets the stage for your bread to develop that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Herb and Garlic Base
Combine the fresh rosemary, parsley, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. This mixture is going to infuse the bread with those aromatic notes that make this recipe so special. Mixing them upfront ensures every slice bursts with herbaceous flavor.
Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, and a little salt. This blend is the backbone of your bread’s texture. Use a whisk to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution of the baking soda, which is crucial for the bread’s rise.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, whisk the plain yogurt, full-fat milk, eggs, and olive oil mixture until smooth. The yogurt adds a lovely tang and moisture, while the eggs help bind everything together. This creates a luscious batter that will keep your bread moist and tender.
Step 5: Gently Fold Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and fold them together gently. Avoid overmixing; you’ll want the batter just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy. Think of it as coaxing the ingredients to work in harmony without overworking the flour.
Step 6: Layer Batter and Cheese
Here’s a fun part: layer the batter and cheese alternately in your prepared loaf pan. This layering creates lovely pockets of melted cheese throughout the bread, ensuring a savory hit in almost every bite. Make sure the layers are evenly distributed for maximum cheese goodness.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake the loaf for about 50 minutes or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing so it holds together better and the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this bread with a few simple garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor even more. Try brushing the top with a little melted butter and sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving to enhance its aroma and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy potato leek for a comforting meal. It’s also perfect as a side for vibrant salads or as part of a cheese board to complement cured meats and olives.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, slice the bread and arrange it artfully on a wooden board with small bowls of flavored butters, olive tapenade, or honey for guests to spread. Or, toast slices lightly and top with avocado and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a quick, elegant appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap any leftover Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it stays fresh and flavorful for up to two days—perfect for quick snacks or last-minute additions to meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread to extend its shelf life. Slice it before freezing, then wrap the slices individually or as a loaf in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw just what you need, preserving freshness without waste.
Reheating
To reheat, simply toast slices or warm the loaf in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the crust crisps up nicely. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary and parsley?
Absolutely! Fresh oregano, thyme, or basil can be delicious substitutes or additions to the herb mix. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand to make the bread uniquely yours.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, with some adjustments. Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure your baking soda is gluten-free as well. Note that texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine through wonderfully.
Why does this recipe use baking soda instead of yeast?
Using baking soda allows the bread to rise quickly without the hours of proofing that yeast requires. This quick bread is perfect for when you want homemade bread without waiting overnight.
Can I make this bread vegan?
You can try replacing the dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives, like almond milk yogurt, flax eggs, and vegan butter or oil. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may differ, but it’s a great option for a dairy- and egg-free treat.
How long does this bread keep fresh once baked?
Stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh for about two days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet to maintain freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making bread at home, and this Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe delivers all the comforts of homemade bread without the fuss of yeast. It’s packed with flavor, easy enough for a weekday treat, and impressive enough to share with friends. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and create your own warm, fragrant loaf that fills your kitchen with happiness and wholesome goodness.
Print
Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread (No Yeast) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese, Herb & Garlic Quick Bread is a delightful no-yeast loaf perfect for a savory snack or accompaniment to any meal. Infused with fresh rosemary, parsley, garlic, and your choice of cheddar or another cheese, this quick bread combines the rich flavors of herbs and creamy cheese in a tender, moist crumb. Ready in just over an hour, it’s an easy and flavorful bake that requires no rising time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Herbs & Flavorings
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
Dry Ingredients
- 2¼ cups plain flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
Dairy & Eggs
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- ¾ cup full-fat milk
- 2 large eggs
- 200g cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease or line a loaf pan to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Herbs and Flavorings: In a bowl, combine fresh rosemary, parsley, garlic cloves (crushed or minced), extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir together until well blended to create a fragrant herb mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the plain yogurt, full-fat milk, eggs, and the previously prepared herb and olive oil mixture until smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough.
- Layer Batter and Cheese: Pour a layer of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle a layer of the grated or cubed cheese on top. Continue layering alternately until all batter and cheese are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top for a golden cheesy crust.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheese with your favorite variety such as mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for different flavors.
- If fresh herbs are unavailable, use 1 tbsp of dried herbs instead, but reduce quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- For a dairy-free option, replace yogurt and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
