Name: Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup olive oil

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 53 reviews

If you are craving a warm, comforting loaf that bursts with fresh herbs and gooey cheese, this Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This soft, flavorful quick bread blends fragrant thyme and rosemary with melted cheddar or Gruyère, making it a perfect companion for soups, stews, or your favorite holiday spread. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain bread again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy pale yellow batter. On top of the batter, there are three separate piles of shredded cheese: pale yellow, bright orange, and fine white powder. A spatula with a white head and a wooden handle rests inside the bowl on the right side, slightly mixing the ingredients. Near the bowl, to the left, is a white plate with more shredded pale yellow and orange cheese and a small white lid nearby. A white towel with green stripes lies under the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the key to achieving that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture in this bread. Each item plays a crucial role in bringing out the herbaceous aroma, cheesy richness, and tender crumb that define the Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and tenderness.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the bread rises nicely and stays light.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the savory flavors and balances the cheese.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy and floral note.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Brings a fragrant pine-like aroma that elevates the bread.
1 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese: Offers melty, rich pockets of flavor throughout.
1 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to tenderness.
1/4 cup olive oil: Keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle fruity depth.

How to Make Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan well to ensure your bread doesn’t stick and bakes up with a beautifully golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. This creates a uniform base where the herbs are evenly distributed to infuse each bite with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Stir the shredded cheddar or Gruyère into your dry ingredients. Coating the cheese in the flour mixture helps prevent it from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the milk, eggs, and olive oil until fully blended. This combination keeps the bread moist and tender while giving it a slight richness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread dense instead of soft and airy.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool slightly before slicing ensures the texture stays perfect and the cheesy pockets settle beautifully.

How to Serve Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top of sliced bread for an extra burst of freshness. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also enhance the bread’s natural flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with creamy soups like tomato bisque, hearty stews, or fresh salads. Its rich cheese and herbal notes complement both light and robust dishes, making it incredibly versatile on your table.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thickly and serving it as a base for bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil. Alternatively, use it for savory sandwiches with roasted vegetables or smoked turkey. It also makes an excellent accompaniment to cheese boards or antipasto platters.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The loaf maintains its softness and flavor well when stored properly.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe later, slice the loaf and freeze it in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can take out just what you need without thawing the entire loaf.

Reheating

To reheat, toast individual slices or warm the whole loaf wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This refreshes the bread’s texture and revives the melty cheese inside.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh herbs will give a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs to dried, and chop them finely before adding.

What type of cheese works best in this bread?

Cheddar and Gruyère both melt beautifully and provide rich, savory depth. However, you can experiment with other semi-hard cheeses like fontina or mozzarella for different flavors and textures.

Is this bread gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Can I add other ingredients like nuts or olives?

Absolutely! Chopped olives, toasted nuts, or sun-dried tomatoes can add exciting flavors and textures. Just fold them into the batter along with the cheese.

How long does this bread stay fresh?

When stored at room temperature in an airtight container, the bread stays fresh for about 2 days. Refrigeration can extend its life but may dry it out, so freezing is preferable for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe is truly a gem to have in your baking repertoire. Its delightful combination of herbs and melted cheese makes every slice a little celebration. Whether you’re pairing it with a comforting bowl of soup, serving it at a holiday feast, or simply enjoying it warm with a cup of tea, this bread will make your taste buds dance. Give it a try — I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes!