If you’re looking for a delightful way to combine the rich flavors of cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs into an irresistibly tender loaf that comes together in a snap, the Cheese, Garlic and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This bread bursts with pockets of melty cheddar and swirls of fragrant herbs, perfectly complemented by the subtle punch of garlic. Best of all, there’s no waiting around for yeast to rise—this quick bread is ready in under two hours, making it a charming homemade treat whether for morning tea, a picnic, or alongside your favorite hearty soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A small clear glass bowl filled with green sauce that looks like it has chopped herbs mixed into an oily base. The sauce has a shiny, wet texture with visible small bits of herbs floating in the light green liquid. The bowl is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, accessible, and full of flavor—each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in achieving the perfect texture, aroma, and taste. From the sharp cheddar adding richness to the fresh herbs that provide brightness, here’s everything you’ll need to make this quick bread shine.

Cheese: 7 oz / 200g block of cheddar or tasty cheese, sliced 3mm thick in varied widths to create delightful ribbons and pockets.
Fresh rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped, offering a piney, pungent note that complements garlic beautifully.
Fresh parsley leaves: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped, bringing a fresh, slightly peppery taste and vibrant green flecks.
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon, adds a warm, slightly bitter herbal depth that deepens the swirl’s complexity.
Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon, lending subtle earthiness without overpowering.
Garlic cloves: 4 small cloves total—2 crushed for the herb swirl and 2 crushed or grated for the batter, ensuring a garlic hit throughout.
Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons for the swirl, providing richness and helping bind the herbs together.
Salt: 1 teaspoon cooking/kosher salt for the swirl and 3/4 teaspoon for the dry mix (halve if using table salt), essential for balancing flavors.
Plain flour (all-purpose): 2 1/4 cups, the backbone of your bread’s structure.
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, the leavening agent that creates that light, tender crumb without yeast.
Plain yogurt: 1/2 cup, full fat recommended for moisture and slight tang that balances richness.
Milk: 3/4 cup, full fat preferred, adds tenderness to the crumb.
Large eggs: 2, acting as binders and helping rise.
Unsalted butter: 3 1/2 tablespoons melted, contributing to moist texture and buttery flavor.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for the batter, enhancing richness and softness.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Loaf Tin

Start by heating your oven to 180°C / 350°F, whether using a fan or a standard oven. Lightly grease a 21 x 11 x 7 cm (8.3 x 4.5 x 2.75″) loaf pan with butter or oil spray, then line it with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your stunning bread will slide out easily once baked, preserving all those wonderful swirls and cheesy pockets without sticking.

Step 2: Create the Herb and Garlic Swirl

Combine the finely chopped rosemary and parsley with dried oregano, thyme, crushed garlic, olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Mix until you have a thick, dollop-able paste. This fragrant swirl is the secret star that infuses every bite with vibrant herby and garlic goodness.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, and salt. This step distributes the leavening agent and salt evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your bread rises uniformly and tastes perfectly seasoned.

Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

Next, in another bowl, whisk the plain yogurt, milk, eggs, melted butter, olive oil, and the remaining crushed garlic until smooth and creamy. This combination adds richness, moisture, and subtle flavor bursts that keep the quick bread soft and delicious.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently fold them together until just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to dense bread, so mix just enough to bring everything together into a thick batter that holds its shape.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl in the Herb Mixture and Cheese

Pour one-third of the batter into your prepared loaf tin. Dollop one-third of the herb and garlic swirl across the top, then use a knife to swirl through the batter with an up-and-down, twisting motion. Next, tuck a third of the sliced cheese into the batter randomly—some submerged, some poking out for that rustic, appealing look. Repeat these layers two more times. Don’t worry if bits of herb mixture or cheese slices peek out on top; it only adds to the rustic charm once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the bread for 30 minutes uncovered until the top turns a mouthwatering golden brown. Then, cover the loaf loosely with foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes. This method keeps the bread moist inside while ensuring the crust doesn’t burn. Test doneness by inserting a skewer in the center—it should come out clean. Allow it to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a rack for at least 10 minutes to avoid crumbly slices.

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

A loaf of bread with a golden brown crust sits upright on a white marbled surface. The bread is sliced, showing inside layers of soft, light yellow dough with thick, uneven swirls of green herb filling throughout. The crust has a slightly crispy texture with some browned spots on top. A small sprig of fresh rosemary lies on top of the loaf, adding a touch of green. In the foreground, a white cloth is slightly out of focus, with a small spoon containing green herb sauce resting beside the bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving this bread warm is pure magic—spread with a generous knob of butter that melts into every crevice of the cheese and herb pockets. For a bit of extra flair, sprinkle freshly chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt also elevate the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs splendidly with slow-cooked stews, hearty soups, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser with charcuterie boards and cheese platters, providing a flavorful base that complements olives, cold meats, and dips. Because it slices so well, it’s perfect for serving alongside breakfast spreads or afternoon teas.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the loaf and toasting each slice until golden and crispy, then top with avocado and tomato for a savory snack or breakfast. You could even transform it into mini sandwiches by slicing it thicker, adding layers of ham, leafy greens, and a touch of mayo or pesto. For a party, cut into bite-sized cubes for dipping into olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite spreads. The options with this Cheese, Garlic and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe are truly endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent drying out. Kept at room temperature, the bread should be delicious for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate to extend freshness for up to four days, though this can slightly change the texture.

Freezing

This quick bread freezes wonderfully. Slice before freezing, then layer with parchment paper inside a freezer bag or container. It stays good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toast or gently thaw slices to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked feeling, warm slices in a toaster or under a grill until the edges turn crispy and the cheese softens beautifully. You can also microwave slices wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel for 15 to 20 seconds if you’re in a hurry, though this will soften the crust instead of crisping it.

FAQs

Can I substitute the herbs in this recipe?

Absolutely! While rosemary, parsley, oregano, and thyme are classic for this quick bread, feel free to experiment with basil, tarragon, or chives. Fresh or dried herbs both work, just adjust quantities so the herb flavor isn’t overpowering.

Is it okay to use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Cheddar or tasty cheese give a wonderful melty and sharp flavor, but you can swap in mozzarella for mellow creaminess, Gruyère for nuttiness, or even crumbled feta for a salty tang. Just keep the cheese suited for melting to maintain those delicious pockets.

Why does this recipe use baking soda instead of baking powder?

The acidity from the yogurt reacts with the baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles, making the bread rise quickly without yeast. If you prefer baking powder, you can substitute 3 1/2 teaspoons, but the texture and flavor might be slightly different.

Can I make this bread vegan or dairy-free?

It’s a bit tricky because the recipe relies on yogurt, cheese, and butter for texture and flavor. However, you can try dairy-free yogurt, vegan butter, and a plant-based cheese alternative. Keep in mind that the result might differ in taste and density.

How thick should I slice the bread for best results?

Slice the bread about 1 to 1.5 cm thick for most uses—thicker slices hold together nicely and really showcase the cheesy herby swirl. Thin slices work well if you want crispier toasted bites or for dipping but might be less sturdy.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese, Garlic and Herb No-Yeast Quick Bread Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves homemade bread but doesn’t have hours to wait. The combination of fragrant herbs, bold garlic, and melty cheese creates a loaf that’s not only incredibly tasty but also versatile enough for a myriad of meals and occasions. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a loved staple in your kitchen in no time.