Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of baking bread wafted through the air, warming my heart and soul. This Delicious Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread is my go-to recipe when I crave something comforting yet quick to make. With the rich flavors of sharp cheese and briny olives, it shines as the perfect companion for brunches, lunch spreads, or casual dinner parties. Not only is it simple to whip up, but it also elevates any occasion with minimal effort—making it an ultimate crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize with your favorite herbs or cheese varieties! Curious to unleash the baker in you and impress your guests with this delightful treat? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Will You Love This Quick Bread? Irresistible Aroma: The scent of this bread baking will transport you to a cozy bistro, filling your kitchen with warmth. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for brunches or as a party appetizer, it’s a guaranteed hit that everyone will savor. Quick & Simple: With minimal effort required, you can whip up this savory treat in no time—ideal for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings. Versatile Customization: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs, just like with our Potato Cheese Sticks—make it your own! Moist & Flavorful: Each slice boasts a tender texture with pockets of gooey cheese and savory olives, hitting all the right taste notes. Tempting Leftovers: Enjoy it the next day with a pat of butter or serve it sliced with fresh veggies, making it as appealing the second time around! Cheese & Olive Quick Bread Ingredients For your savory baking adventure, here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Cheese & Olive Quick Bread. For the Batter All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise. Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste based on cheese and olives used. Sharp cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Cheddar) – Adds richness and flavor; choose robust varieties for the best taste. Chopped olives (green or black) – Brings savory elements to the bread; use your preferred type for different flavors. Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme) – Adds complexity to the flavor profile; feel free to use any freshly chopped herbs you enjoy. Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; for vegan, substitute with flax eggs. Milk – Adds moisture and helps achieve the perfect crumb; use dairy or plant-based milk as desired. For the Topping Olive oil – Creates a golden crust; optional, but recommended for an aromatic finish that enhances your Cheese & Olive Quick Bread. Get ready to indulge in the beautiful flavors and textures of this savory treat! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese & Olive Quick Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the cheese and olive quick bread from sticking. This will make it easier to remove the loaf once it’s baked and allow it to cool properly. Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the baking powder is fresh for a perfect rise. Once these ingredients are thoroughly mixed, set the bowl aside and admire the airy texture, which will soon transform into your delicious cheese and olive quick bread. Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, and a splash of olive oil. Beat these ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture. This step is crucial as it adds moisture to the bread, ensuring a tender crumb. You can also allow the eggs and milk to reach room temperature beforehand for the best results. Step 4: Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, and gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be cautious not to overmix; just combine until you see no dry flour remaining. This careful technique helps keep your cheese and olive quick bread delightfully moist and tender. Step 5: Add Cheese, Olives, and Herbs Now, it’s time to elevate the flavor! Gently fold in your chopped sharp cheese, olives, and any fresh herbs you choose to add. Aim for an even distribution of these savory ingredients throughout the batter, bringing rich flavor combinations to each slice of your cheese and olive quick bread. Step 6: Transfer to Loaf Pan Scoop the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with your spatula for an even rise. If you’d like, lightly spray the top with additional olive oil for a golden crust. The pan should be filled about 3/4 full, leaving space for the bread to expand while baking. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the color—it should develop a lovely golden brown hue. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cheese and olive quick bread is all set to come out. Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will tempt your senses as you anticipate slicing into the warm, savory bread! Storage Tips for Cheese & Olive Quick Bread Room Temperature: Store your leftover cheese & olive quick bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain its delightful texture. Fridge: It can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember to reheat in the oven or microwave for best flavor and texture. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the quick bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: To enjoy it again, reheat slices in a toaster or oven until warmed through. A light spread of butter can elevate the flavor for a cozy experience! Make Ahead Options These Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Breads are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. The wet ingredients can also be mixed together and refrigerated overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the wet and dry ingredients with the cheese, olives, and herbs, then proceed with baking. To maintain quality, avoid mixing the batter too early to prevent over-activation of the baking powder. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making this quick bread a delightful choice for any occasion! Cheese & Olive Quick Bread Variations Get ready to personalize your savory bread experience, as there are countless ways to make this delightful treat even more extraordinary! Herb-Infused: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like basil or dill for an aromatic twist. The vibrant flavors will elevate your quick bread to new heights. Sundried Tomato: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped sundried tomatoes for a tangy burst that complements the cheese and olives beautifully. This adds a Mediterranean flair that’s simply irresistible! Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the batter for a mild kick. The heat brings a delightful surprise, making it perfect for adventurous palates. Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella, for unique flavor profiles. Each cheese will impart its character, allowing you to customize the taste to your liking! Veggie Boost: For a heartier version, mix in 1 cup of chopped spinach or bell peppers. This not only adds nutrition but also brings fantastic color and texture to your bread. Olive Variety: Try using kalamata olives instead of green for a richer depth of flavor. Their distinct taste will bring a whole new level of savory goodness to your quick bread. Nutty Crunch: Fold in a handful of toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts for added crunch and nutrition. The texture contrast will take your cheese and olive quick bread to another level of enjoyment! Curious to explore more variations? While you’re experimenting, check out our delectable Chocolate Zucchini Bread that also offers unique twists on classic recipes! What to Serve with Savory Cheese and Olive Quick Bread Imagine the warmth of freshly baked bread paired with delightful accompaniments that make every bite even more enjoyable. Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing offers a bright acidity that complements the savory depth of the bread, making for a comforting meal. Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese and olives, balancing the meal beautifully. Charcuterie Board: Serve sliced bread alongside cured meats, cheeses, and olives for a sophisticated appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining. Herbed Butter: A simple whipped herb butter adds a luscious touch, enhancing the savory profile and inviting your guests to slather it on generously. Olive Tapenade: This spread intensifies the olive flavor, creating a delightful fusion that’s sure to intrigue your taste buds. Sparkling White Wine: Effervescent and crisp, it cleanses the palate between bites, elevating the savory bread experience to a whole new level. Savory Quiche: Pair with a slice of quiche to create a full brunch spread that’s perfect for gatherings or casual get-togethers. Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted veggies offers a wonderful contrast to the salty, savory bread, making for a satisfying meal. Chocolate Torte: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate torte that beautifully balances the savory flavors of the bread, leaving your guests in bliss. Expert Tips for Cheese & Olive Quick Bread • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a better rise and texture in your cheese & olive quick bread. • Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the batter to avoid overmixing. This keeps the bread light and tender, without a dense texture. • Fresh Baking Powder: Always check the freshness of your baking powder to guarantee a nice, fluffy rise. Old baking powder can spoil your bread. • Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with different cheese and olive types, but remember to maintain the proportion for optimal flavor. • Moisture Check: If your batter looks too thick, add a splash more milk to ensure your bread is adequately moist throughout. Cheese & Olive Quick Bread Recipe FAQs What kind of olives should I use for this bread? You can use either green or black olives, depending on your flavor preference. Green olives give a firmer texture and a brinier taste, while black olives provide a milder, sweeter note. Feel free to combine both types or choose your favorite for a unique twist! How should I store leftover cheese & olive quick bread? To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to reheat in the oven or microwave to refresh the texture before serving. Can I freeze cheese & olive quick bread? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled quick bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for that freshly-baked taste. What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly? If your cheese & olive quick bread doesn’t rise as expected, the most common culprit is the freshness of your baking powder. Always check that it’s within the expiration date before using. Additionally, make sure to avoid overmixing your batter; gently folding can help keep the texture light and airy. Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re looking for a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg, let sit for 5 minutes until gel-like) and use plant-based milk. Cheese & Olive Quick Bread: Your New Favorite Savory Snack No ratings yet Enjoy the delightful flavors of Cheese & Olive Quick Bread, a quick and easy savory snack perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: SnacksCuisine: SavoryCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter2 cups All-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.2 tablespoons Baking powder Ensure it's fresh for optimal rise.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste based on cheese and olives used.1 cup Sharp cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Cheddar) Choose robust varieties for the best taste.1 cup Chopped olives (green or black) Use your preferred type for different flavors.1 tablespoon Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme) Feel free to use any freshly chopped herbs you enjoy.2 large Eggs For vegan, substitute with flax eggs.1 cup Milk Use dairy or plant-based milk as desired.For the Topping2 tablespoons Olive oil Optional, but recommended for an aromatic finish. Equipment Loaf PanMixing bowlswhisk Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, and a splash of olive oil, beating until smooth.Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula.Gently fold in the chopped sharp cheese, olives, and any fresh herbs of your choice.Scoop the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.Place in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown.Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 6IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg NotesEnsure all wet ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for better texture. Don't overmix the batter for a tender bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for a week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
