Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread

If you’re craving something both comforting and packed with flavor, this Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread is an absolute must-try. Imagine a golden crust giving way to a soft, tender crumb loaded with melted cheddar and briny olives that sneak in little bursts of savory goodness with every bite. It’s the perfect recipe when you want a fast, fuss-free bread that feels homemade and looks like you spent all afternoon crafting something spectacular. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal at home, this quick bread will quickly become a favorite go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet crucial for balancing taste, texture, and that inviting look of the bread. Each item plays a key role, from the sharpness of cheddar to the tender rise from baking powder and the moisture added by rich butter and milk.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread structure and softness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay light.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the cheese and olives.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of cheesy bliss throughout the bread.
• 1/2 cup sliced black or green olives: Adds that delightful briny pop that sets this bread apart.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness.
• 1 cup whole milk: Moisturizes the batter and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• 1/4 cup melted butter: Brings buttery flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

How to Make Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan well—this ensures your bread releases easily and has a lovely brown crust. This simple prep sets the stage for baking success.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This dry mix is essential to create that perfect rise and balanced seasoning in every slice.

Step 3: Fold in Cheese and Olives

Gently fold the shredded cheddar and sliced olives into the dry ingredients, making sure they’re evenly distributed without overmixing. This step locks in the flavor pockets you’re going to enjoy later.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter until the mixture turns frothy. This adds air and moisture, giving your bread a tender crumb and rich taste.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Mixes Together

Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don’t worry if the batter looks a little lumpy – overmixing can make the bread tough, and those lumps will bake out perfectly.

Step 6: Bake until Golden

Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the crust is beautifully golden.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before removing it to a wire rack. This rest time helps the bread set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

How to Serve Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavors and add a fresh aroma that complements the rich cheese and tangy olives beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread shines alongside a fresh green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Its savory profile also pairs wonderfully with antipasto platters or a charcuterie board for a more indulgent spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bread warm with a dab of herbed butter or alongside a spread of olive tapenade for an extra olive punch. You can also turn slices into mini sandwiches with cured meats and greens, transforming this quick bread into a versatile meal option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the leftover Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it stays fresh for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy later without losing any flavor.

Freezing

This bread freezes very well. Slice it before freezing for easy thaw-and-serve portions. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to three months.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. This restores the crisp crust and melty cheese feeling just like when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use any type of cheese for this quick bread?

Absolutely! While cheddar provides a classic sharpness, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or parmesan for an extra nutty flavor. Just make sure the cheese is shredded for even baking.

Are green olives better than black olives in this recipe?

Both work wonderfully, but green olives tend to be tangier and more piquant, while black olives bring a milder, earthier note. Choose based on your preferred olive flavor or mix them for a fun twist.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for quick breads. Be sure to follow the blend’s instructions on measurement and rising agents for the best results.

How can I make this bread dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk. Replace melted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine to keep that rich texture.

Is this bread suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The recipe is straightforward with simple steps and everyday ingredients, making it a perfect baking project even if you don’t have much experience in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread that makes it stand out—a perfect balance of comforting simplicity and bold flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it and find out just how delicious and easy homemade quick bread can be. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug from the oven, perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself!

Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread

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Cheese and Olive Quick Bread is a savory and flavorful bread that blends the melted richness of cheddar cheese with the briny taste of olives. This quick bread offers a golden crust with a soft, cheesy interior, making it perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or a cozy meal at home. Easy to prepare and delicious, it’s a wonderful addition to any recipe collection.

• Author: Mari
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced black or green olives

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and salt.
3. Add Cheese and Olives: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and sliced olives, mixing gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the dry mixture.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, and melted butter until the mixture is frothy and well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It is important not to overmix; lumps in the batter are okay to maintain the bread’s tender texture.
6. Bake the Bread: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and place it into the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing to serve. This helps the bread to set and makes slicing easier.

Notes

• Use whole milk for a richer flavor, but you can substitute with 2% milk if preferred.
• Feel free to use either black or green olives based on your taste preference.
• Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread; some lumps are desirable.
• Ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper rising.
• Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
• This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as a savory snack on its own.