Name: Cheese, Garlic, and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 7 oz / 200g block of cheddar or tasty cheese, sliced 3mm / 0.1″ thick, varying widths for random ribbons; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt (halve if using fine table salt); 2 1/4 cups plain flour (all-purpose flour); 1 tsp baking soda (or substitute with 3 1/2 tsp baking powder); 3/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt (halve if using fine table salt); 1/2 cup plain yogurt, Greek or regular full fat, unsweetened; 3/4 cup full-fat milk (low fat is acceptable); 2 large eggs (~50-55g / 2oz each); 3 1/2 tbsp (50g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 small garlic cloves, crushed or grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 11 reviews

If you love the idea of warm, comforting bread filled with pockets of melty cheese, bursts of garlic, and fragrant herbs, then you are going to adore this Cheese, Garlic, and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe. It’s the perfect way to enjoy fresh-baked bread without waiting for yeast to rise. The bread boasts a tender crumb, layered with ribbons of herbaceous goodness and savory cheese, making each slice a little celebration of flavor. Whether toasted for breakfast or served alongside your favorite soups, this quick bread brings so much joy and ease to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a blue and white striped cloth over a white marbled surface, filled with a thick dark green sauce that has a slightly chunky texture. In the bowl, a rich brown wooden spoon with a smooth finish rests inside the sauce, partially covered by it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential to achieve the incredible flavors and texture of this bread. Each one plays a crucial role, from tenderizing the crumb with yogurt and eggs to infusing the bread with savory herbs and garlic that make every bite sing.

Cheddar cheese block (7 oz / 200g): Provides rich, melty pockets that create delightful cheesy ribbons throughout the bread.
Fresh rosemary and parsley (2 tbsp each, finely chopped): Bring bright, fragrant herbal notes that elevate the overall flavor profile.
Dried oregano and thyme (1 tsp & 1/2 tsp): Add earthy and subtle complexity to the herb swirl.
Garlic cloves (4 total, crushed or grated): The star of the show for that irresistible savory punch.
Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Ensures the herb and garlic swirl has a luscious, dollop-able texture.
Plain flour (2 1/4 cups): Forms the sturdy but tender base of the bread.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Acts as the leavening agent so the bread rises perfectly without yeast.
Cooking salt (around 1 1/4 tsp total): Balances and enhances all flavors.
Plain yogurt (1/2 cup, full fat preferred): Adds moisture and tender crumb to the quick bread.
Milk (3/4 cup, full fat best): Combines with yogurt and eggs for a rich, tender batter.
Large eggs (2): Help with structure and richness.
Unsalted butter (3 1/2 tbsp, melted): Boosts moistness and gives a slight buttery flavor.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Complements the butter for added richness.

How to Make Cheese, Garlic, and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf pan measuring about 21 x 11 x 7 cm with butter or oil spray, then line it with parchment paper. This will ensure your bread slides out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Herb and Garlic Swirl

In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped rosemary, parsley, dried oregano, thyme, crushed garlic cloves, olive oil, and salt. Stir until you get a thick, dollop-able mixture. This flavorful swirl is going to be the secret star that flavors your bread beautifully from within.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening and seasoning, which is key to an evenly textured bread.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt, milk, eggs, melted butter, olive oil, and the remaining crushed garlic cloves. This blend will add richness, moisture, and a gentle tang to your quick bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and soft.

Step 6: Layer the Batter, Herb Swirl, and Cheese

Pour about one-third of the batter into your loaf tin. Dollop one-third of the herb and garlic mixture over the top, then use a knife to swirl it through the batter. Next, press one-third of the sliced cheese randomly into this layer, some fully submerged and others poking out for a rustic look.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

Repeat the swirling and cheese layering process two more times. Don’t worry if the herb mixture and cheese show on top—it will make the crust beautifully flavorful and aromatic after baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the bread uncovered for 30 minutes until the top turns golden. Then cover loosely with foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes. Insert a skewer to check if baked through; it should come out clean when done. Let the bread cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool further.

How to Serve Cheese, Garlic, and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe

The image shows a thick slice of savory bread with a golden brown crust and a soft, light yellow inside. Inside the bread, there are swirls of green herb mixture spread in two layers, giving a marbled look. The bread's top has a slightly crispy texture with browned cheese and herbs. The slice is placed on a white marbled surface with a small spoon of green herb sauce and some fresh rosemary nearby. Another slice of bread leans against the main slice on the left side. A woman's hand is not visible in this image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This quick bread shines brightest when served warm, fresh, and with a generous spread of butter melting into the soft crumb. For an extra savory touch, sprinkle some flaky sea salt or fresh herbs atop each slice just before serving.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs perfectly with creamy soups, hearty stews, or even your favorite salad for a satisfying meal. It’s also fantastic for dipping into olive oil and balsamic vinegar or alongside a robust tomato-based sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist at gatherings, slice the bread thickly and toast it gently, then top with complementary spreads like pesto (homemade or store-bought), sun-dried tomato tapenade, or whipped feta. It also makes an outstanding base for savory breakfast sandwiches loaded with egg, avocado, and tomato.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep it well sealed to retain moisture and prevent staleness.

Freezing

This quick bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first for easy thawing, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw slices as needed.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, toast slices gently or reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5–10 minutes. A quick spread of butter after reheating will make it taste even better.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar or tasty cheese works best for melty ribbons, you can experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness or Gruyère for a nuttier flavor. Just choose cheeses that melt well.

Is it possible to make this bread vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the yogurt with a plant-based alternative, use flax or chia eggs instead of chicken eggs, and replace butter with a vegan spread. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Yes! Feel free to customize the herb swirl—basil, thyme, or chives all work wonderfully. You could also sprinkle in some chili flakes for a subtle heat or smoked paprika for extra depth.

Why doesn’t this bread need yeast?

The bread relies on baking soda as a leavening agent, which reacts quickly with the acidic yogurt to produce gas bubbles. This creates lift and a tender crumb without the wait time that yeast requires.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substituting gluten-free flour blends might work, but it requires some experimentation since gluten affects the bread’s structure. Using a well-balanced gluten-free mix that includes xanthan gum is recommended.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cheese, Garlic, and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe enough for anyone craving fresh, flavorful bread without the fuss of yeast. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely bursting with deliciousness. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy family dinner or taking slices to a picnic, this bread will quickly become a favorite you return to again and again. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy warm, cheesy, garlicky bliss!