If you have been searching for a bread recipe that combines simplicity, bold flavor, and a delightfully tender texture, then this Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This loaf is a no-fuss, no-knead masterpiece packed with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh, vibrant chives, offering every bite a perfect balance of savory richness and herbaceous brightness. Whether you are serving it alongside your favorite soup, slicing it for sandwiches, or nibbling on it as a snack, this bread delivers a cozy, satisfying experience that feels homemade and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe comes down to a handful of wholesome ingredients that are easy to find but each play a crucial role. Flour gives us that soft crumb, while yeast ensures the bread has a lovely lift and airy texture. Cheddar brings sharpness and gooey cheesiness, and fresh chives add a burst of green freshness, making every bite stand out.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation, creating the structure of the bread’s tender crumb.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Just enough sweetness to help activate the yeast and balance flavors.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the other tastes and keep the yeast in check.
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast: The little powerhouse that wakes up and makes this bread rise beautifully.
- 1 cup warm milk: Adds richness and moisture to keep the bread soft and flavorful.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Brings tenderness and a subtle fruity note to the loaf.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient, providing a savory, melty punch in every bite.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives: Adds a fresh, mild onion-like zing that complements the cheddar perfectly.
How to Make Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your bread goes into a perfectly hot environment, which is key to getting that golden crust. Meanwhile, grease your loaf pan lightly to prevent sticking and make removal a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, blend together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. This dry mix is the base that will create the right texture and flavor balance. Stir them well so the yeast distributes evenly, setting the stage for a consistent rise.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour warm milk and olive oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mixing these gently together with a spoon will form a thick batter-like dough — no kneading necessary. The warm milk activates the yeast, while oil adds moisture and softness.
Step 4: Fold in Cheese and Chives
Now for the fun part: gently fold in the shredded cheddar and chopped chives. This step infuses the batter with those classic flavors that make this bread irresistibly savory. Make sure to distribute them evenly so every slice gets a perfect blend.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top slightly. Cover it loosely and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 20 to 30 minutes. This short rise gives the bread its tender lift without the fuss of traditional dough.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the loaf into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If you want a cheesy crust, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar on top before baking — it melts into a bubbly, savory topping.
How to Serve Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe
Garnishes
This bread shines with simple garnishes like a light smear of herb butter, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking to amp up the savory experience. Fresh chives or finely chopped green onions on top also add visual appeal and a fresh pop of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this loaf with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato basil, creamy potato leek, or a robust chili, and watch how it effortlessly elevates the meal. It also works wonderfully with hearty salads or can be sliced for sandwiches filled with smoked turkey, ham, or roasted veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
Get a little creative by serving slices as crostini topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon or mashed avocado. Turn it into a savory bread pudding by layering cubes with eggs and cheese. The savory cheddar and chive batter bread recipe’s flexibility lets you impress at brunch or snack time with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Storing it well keeps the crumb soft and the crust from becoming too tough.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first so you can thaw just what you need, then store slices in a freezer-safe bag or wrap the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked taste, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This restores the cheese’s melty goodness and crisp-tender texture perfectly without making it dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic here, you can experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors and textures. Just be mindful of moisture content as softer cheeses might affect the batter consistency.
Is this bread gluten-free?
This particular Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can try a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, though it may slightly change the texture and rise.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Fresh rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of paprika or garlic powder can take this bread to new heights. Just add them along with the chives to evenly distribute the flavors.
Do I need to let the bread rise?
Yes, letting the batter rise for 20 to 30 minutes is important. It activates the yeast so the bread becomes airy and tender, rather than dense. The rise time here is much shorter than traditional breads, making it a great quick option.
What’s the best way to slice this bread?
Use a serrated bread knife to slice through without squashing the loaf. Letting the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing also helps maintain the structure and keeps the cheddar from oozing out too much.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making a loaf that is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, and this Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It invites warmth and comfort to your kitchen, turning simple ingredients into a delicious loaf you’ll want to bake again and again. Give it a try soon and watch how it wins over friends and family alike with its cheesy, fresh, homey charm.
Print
Savory Cheddar and Chive Batter Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including 20–30 minutes rise time)
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Savory Cheese and Chive Batter Bread is a deliciously flavorful, no-knead loaf that combines sharp cheddar cheese with fresh chives for a perfect savory bread. Ideal as a side for soups or a satisfying snack, this bread features a tender crumb and golden crust achieved through simple baking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Add-ins
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Stir thoroughly to distribute the yeast evenly throughout the flour mixture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually stir in the warm milk and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a batter forms. The batter will be thicker than a typical dough but still spreadable.
- Incorporate Cheese and Chives: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh chives gently, ensuring they are evenly dispersed without overmixing.
- Prepare for Rising: Grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking, then spread the batter evenly into the pan.
- Let Rise: Cover the loaf pan loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the batter rise in a warm place for 20–30 minutes until slightly puffy.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and fully cooked through. You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with soup or as a savory snack.
Notes
- For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top of the batter before baking.
- This bread is delicious served warm and pairs wonderfully with creamy or tomato-based soups.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
