Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Bread

Bold, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is a savory quick bread you’ll want to make again and again. With a soft, tender crumb and golden, cheesy crust, it’s perfect served warm as a side, toasted for breakfast, or sliced into thick chunks for dipping into soup. The combination of garlic, herbs, spicy jalapeños, and sharp cheddar delivers the ultimate flavor-packed bite in every slice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Loaded with Flavor – Spicy, garlicky, herby, and cheesy in every bite.
No Yeast Needed – A quick bread that’s simple and fuss-free.
Moist & Tender – Thanks to buttermilk and shredded cheese.
Versatile – Serve with chili, eggs, soups, or as a snack.
Perfect for Sharing – Great for gatherings, potlucks, and holiday spreads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1–2 jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)

Optional Toppings:

• Extra shredded cheese
• Sliced jalapeños
• Garlic herb butter (for brushing)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
9×5-inch loaf pan
Whisk and spatula
Grater (for cheese)
Oven-safe brush (for butter)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Mix-ins
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños.
Toss gently to coat with the flour mixture—this helps keep them evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs (if using).

Step 5: Mix and Combine
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix. Batter will be thick.

Step 6: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Smooth the top and sprinkle with additional cheese and sliced jalapeños if desired.

Step 7: Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Brush with garlic herb butter while warm, if desired.
Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best Jalapeño Cheddar Bread
Use Fresh Jalapeños – For vibrant heat and flavor.
Shred Your Own Cheese – Melts better than pre-shredded.
Don’t Overmix – Keeps the bread tender and light.
Make It Spicier – Leave jalapeño seeds in or add red pepper flakes.
Add Texture – Fold in corn kernels or crispy bacon bits for a twist.

Serving Suggestions
With Chili or Soup – A hearty side that soaks up broth beautifully.
Toasted with Eggs – Makes a savory breakfast or brunch.
As a Sandwich Bread – Try it with turkey, ham, or egg salad.
With Garlic Butter – Perfect warm from the oven with a slather of spread.
As Party Slices – Cut into squares and serve with dips or spreads.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temp: Wrap in foil or keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Up to 5 days—reheat before serving.

Freezing:
Slice the cooled loaf and wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temp or microwave individual slices.

Reheating:
Oven: Toast at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
Toaster: Perfect for crisp edges.
Microwave: 20–30 seconds for a warm slice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other cheeses?
Yes—Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella all work well.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and ensure all ingredients are GF.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Substitute with 1 ¼ cups milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar—let sit 5 minutes.

4. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Spoon batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

5. Is this bread very spicy?
Not overly spicy. Remove the jalapeño seeds for mild heat or add more for extra kick.

Final Thoughts
Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Bread is a savory showstopper—perfectly spiced, full of cheesy goodness, and impossibly easy to make. Whether you serve it warm with dinner or toast it up for a hearty breakfast, this bread brings bold flavor and rustic comfort to every slice.

Bake a loaf and spice up your bread game with this cheesy, garlicky delight!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American / Savory Quick Bread

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 1 of 10):
Calories: 250 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 21g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 360mg

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