When you want freshly baked bread without the waiting and kneading of yeast dough, this Ham and Cheese Quick Bread delivers tender, savory perfection studded with smoky ham and melted cheese pockets that make every slice irresistible. The quick bread method means you can have warm, homemade bread on the table in just over an hour, with a texture that’s somewhere between cornbread and traditional bread – moist, tender, and absolutely delicious. Each slice reveals golden cheese pulls and bits of ham throughout, creating the perfect accompaniment to soup, excellent for sandwiches, or wonderful toasted with butter for breakfast. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you want the satisfaction of homemade bread without the time commitment, this recipe makes one loaf serving 8-10 slices and takes about 70 minutes from start to finish.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes prep, 55 minutes baking
Makes: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
What You’ll Need
For the bread base:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
For the wet ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup melted butter, cooled slightly
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
For the mix-ins:
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced small
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Preparing the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Make sure everything is evenly distributed to ensure consistent seasoning throughout the bread.
Creating the Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined. The mustard adds tangy depth while the honey balances the savory flavors.
The Gentle Fold Method
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix – the batter should be lumpy and barely mixed, which creates tender bread.
Adding the Good Stuff
Reserve 1/4 cup of the cheddar cheese for topping. Fold the diced ham, remaining cheeses, and green onions if using into the batter. Again, use a gentle hand to avoid overworking the dough.
Understanding Quick Bread
Unlike yeast breads, quick breads rely on chemical leavening and should not be kneaded or overmixed. Some lumps are perfectly fine and will disappear during baking.
Filling the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The batter will be thick and chunky with all the delicious add-ins.
Creating the Cheese Crown
Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of the batter. This creates a beautiful golden, cheesy crust that adds visual appeal and extra flavor.
The Perfect Bake
Bake for 50-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Testing for Doneness
The bread should be firm to the touch and pulling away slightly from the sides of the pan. The internal temperature should reach 190-200 degrees if using a thermometer.
The Cooling Process
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and turn out onto a wire rack. Let cool for at least 15 more minutes before slicing.
Slicing for Success
Use a sharp serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to slice the bread. The first slice is always tricky, but subsequent slices will be cleaner and easier.
Serving Warm
This bread is absolutely divine served slightly warm with butter melting into the slice. The cheese is still gooey and the ham flavor is at its peak.
Storage Guidelines
Store leftover bread wrapped in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The moisture from the cheese keeps it fresh.
Reheating Tips
Toast slices in a toaster or under the broiler for the best texture. You can also wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm in a 300-degree oven for 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside tomato soup, chili, or any hearty stew. It’s also excellent for breakfast with scrambled eggs, or toasted for sandwiches.
Customization Options
Try different cheese combinations like pepper jack for heat or smoked gouda for depth. Add diced jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs for variety.
Make-Ahead Strategy
The dry and wet ingredients can be prepared separately the night before. Combine and bake in the morning for fresh bread with minimal early morning effort.
Freezing Instructions
This bread freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven.
Gift-Giving Ideas
Bake in smaller loaf pans and give as gifts. Include serving suggestions and reheating instructions for a thoughtful homemade present.
Troubleshooting Tips
If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 15 minutes. If the center is gummy, it needs more baking time – cover the top and continue baking.
Why Quick Bread Works
The baking powder reacts with the milk’s acid and heat to create carbon dioxide bubbles that make the bread rise without yeast or waiting.
Texture Expectations
This bread won’t be as airy as yeast bread – it’s denser and more cake-like in texture, which is exactly what makes it perfect for sturdy slices.
This Ham and Cheese Quick Bread proves that homemade bread doesn’t require hours of your day. With simple mixing, quality ingredients, and less than an hour of baking, you can create a savory loaf that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and delivers the kind of comfort that only fresh bread can provide.
