Description
A savory quick bread featuring tart cranberries, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cheese boards, or served alongside soups, this bread balances a moist texture with vibrant flavors for a deliciously festive addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Add-ins
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley), chopped
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a standard loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to evenly distribute the leavening and seasonings.
- Add Cranberries, Cheese, and Herbs: Stir in the cranberries, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh herbs into the dry mixture, making sure they are evenly incorporated.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and olive oil until fully blended and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the bread set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Pairs beautifully with butter or alongside hearty soups for a comforting meal.
- If fresh cranberries are not available, dried cranberries can be used as a convenient substitute.
- Fresh herbs can be varied according to preference, such as substituting rosemary with thyme or parsley.
- To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to the dry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American