Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives

Introduction

There’s something remarkably satisfying about biting into a warm, freshly baked loaf of bread—especially when it’s packed with bold ingredients like cheese and olives. This savory quick bread with cheese and olives stands out as the perfect solution when you crave homemade comfort without the fuss of yeast or long proofing times. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch, adding a twist to your appetizer spread, or just craving a savory snack, this bread delivers rustic charm and indulgent flavors in every slice. Let’s uncover what makes this recipe so unique and irresistible.

The Rich History and Heritage Behind Savory Bread

Bread is an ancient staple that has evolved dramatically over centuries, adapting to regional ingredients and culinary creativity. While most traditional breads rely on yeast for leavening, the concept of quick bread—rising without yeast—emerged in the 19th century, revolutionizing home baking. Savory quick breads, in particular, offered convenience and versatility for families seeking hearty, filling options without the waiting time. Incorporating cheese and olives into bread isn’t new either. Mediterranean cultures, especially in Greece, Italy, and southern France, have long added olives and cheese to dough, infusing rustic loaves with salty richness and depth.

Today’s version of this bread borrows from these culinary traditions and simplifies them for the modern kitchen, allowing you to enjoy those timeless Mediterranean flavors in just under an hour.

Ingredients With Purpose and Character

Each ingredient in this savory quick bread with cheese and olives contributes not only to the texture and structure but also to the complexity of flavors that make this bread a standout.

• All-purpose flour (2 cups): This foundational element gives the bread its body and structure. It’s flexible, easy to find, and provides a neutral base that lets the cheese and olives shine.
• Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Acting as the leavening agent, it helps the bread rise without yeast, making it quick and hassle-free.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Salt enhances flavor, while black pepper adds a mild warmth. Just a touch is enough to complement the savory add-ins.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): A pinch introduces a subtle, spicy kick. It’s optional, but those who enjoy heat will find it elevates the overall taste.
• Shredded Cheese (1 cup): Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix—each brings its own personality. Cheddar adds sharpness, while mozzarella offers gooey, creamy richness.
• Whole Milk (1 cup): This binds ingredients and adds moisture. The fat content helps tenderize the loaf.
• Olive Oil (1/4 cup): A nod to Mediterranean influence, it infuses a fruity, herbal undertone and keeps the crumb soft.
• Eggs (2 large): They provide structure, richness, and help emulsify the batter.
• Pitted Olives (1 cup): Green, black, or mixed—olives give bursts of briny flavor and a chewy contrast to the soft crumb.
• Thyme (optional): Whether fresh or dried, thyme adds an earthy herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with cheese and olives.
• Butter or Spray for Greasing: Ensures your loaf pops out cleanly, with a golden crust that’s hard to resist.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Making this savory quick bread with cheese and olives is about more than satisfying your hunger. It’s about creating something that feels homey and gourmet at the same time. This loaf is:

• Quick and no-fuss: No yeast, no kneading, and no rising time.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or served alongside soups and salads.
• Flavor-packed: Each bite offers a symphony of cheesy, salty, and herbal notes.
• Customizable: Switch up the cheese or olives, add herbs, or toss in sundried tomatoes for variety.
• Crowd-pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks, brunch tables, and holiday spreads.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan using melted butter or non-stick spray. This ensures an even golden crust and prevents sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you’re using it. Whisk them together to distribute everything evenly. This step ensures you won’t have clumps of any one ingredient.

Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, olive oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and uniform. These ingredients form the base of the bread’s moisture and richness.

Bring It All Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. The key here is not overmixing—this keeps your bread tender and avoids toughness.

Fold in the Flavor:
Add the shredded cheese, pitted olives, and thyme. Fold these into the batter, making sure they’re evenly spread throughout. Each slice should be loaded with cheesy and olive-y goodness.

Transfer to Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top for a uniform bake.

Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling helps set the structure and enhances the flavor. Slice only when it’s cooled slightly to avoid crumbling.

Nutritional Information

This bread is indulgent yet wholesome in many ways. Here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting per slice (approximate values for a 10-slice loaf):

• Calories: 210–240
• Protein: 7–9g (from eggs, cheese, and milk)
• Fats: 12–14g (with healthy fats from olive oil)
• Carbohydrates: 18–22g
• Calcium: High, thanks to cheese and milk
• Sodium: Moderate to high, primarily from cheese and olives

While not low-calorie, this bread offers satisfying nutrition, especially when paired with a light salad or soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, this quick bread can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. It also freezes well for up to a month.

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely. Try Gruyère, parmesan, or feta for a twist. Mixing cheeses gives you complexity and texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Keep in mind texture might vary slightly.

Do I need to use both black and green olives?
No, you can choose whichever you prefer. A mix adds more flavor variety, but either type works well.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly and keep it at room temperature for two days or refrigerate for up to five days.

Can I add other ingredients?
Certainly. Chopped sundried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or fresh basil can enhance the flavor even more.

Is this bread suitable for kids?
Yes, though you may want to omit the cayenne pepper for a milder version.

Can I bake this in muffin tins?
Yes, just adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes. It makes great grab-and-go savory muffins.

Conclusion

This savory quick bread with cheese and olives isn’t just another recipe—it’s an invitation to embrace comfort food with character. Its simple preparation, dynamic flavor, and adaptable nature make it a favorite in any kitchen. Whether served fresh from the oven with a pat of butter or toasted the next day with a swipe of cream cheese, this bread keeps delivering.

Baking at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With this no-yeast, flavor-loaded loaf, you’re guaranteed results that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and make it your signature bake. Once you do, this bread might just become your go-to savory treat.

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