If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave something a little off the beaten path, Cheesy Pickle Bread is about to become your new obsession! This loaf is a magical marriage of sharp cheddar, tangy dill pickles, and pillowy soft bread—each bite is bursting with savory goodness and a snappy pickle surprise. Whether you serve it at parties, as a savory snack, or as a fun side to hearty soups, this bread always sparks conversation (and empty plates). Get ready to wow your taste buds and bring a bit of zing to your snack game with every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Cheesy Pickle Bread is refreshingly simple, yet each one brings something special to the table. Every component plays a big role in creating the bread’s flavor balance, tender crumb, and eye-catching speckled look.
- All-purpose flour: The base, providing structure to hold all the delicious fillings together.
- Baking powder: Gives the bread its satisfying lift and fluffiness.
- Baking soda: Works alongside the buttermilk to create just the right rise.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle savory depth that highlights the cheddar and pickles.
- Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- Black pepper: A gentle hint of spice that complements the sharp cheddar.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show, melting beautifully for gooey, cheesy swirls.
- Chopped dill pickles (well-drained): The zesty pop of flavor that makes this loaf unforgettable.
- Pickle juice: Infuses the bread with a subtle, tangy pickle undertone.
- Large eggs: Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
- Buttermilk: Guarantees a super moist, tender crumb and a slight tang.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Brings richness and extra moisture to the bread.
- Fresh chopped dill (optional): The finishing touch for extra herbaceous brightness—totally worth it if you have it on hand!
How to Make Cheesy Pickle Bread
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This little bit of prep ensures your Cheesy Pickle Bread will release easily from the pan after baking, keeping every cheesy, pickle-flecked slice intact. A quick swipe of butter or a shot of nonstick spray does the trick.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This step distributes the leaveners and seasonings evenly, guaranteeing an even rise and perfect flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Pickles
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped dill pickles. It’s important to fold these in before adding the wet ingredients so they disperse evenly and don’t clump together. This way, you’ll get lovely pockets of cheese and zingy pickle in every slice.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and pickle juice. This mixture not only hydrates the batter, but also introduces tang, richness, and even more pickle flavor, making the bread extra irresistible.
Step 5: Combine and Fold
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your Cheesy Pickle Bread tender and soft. At this stage, if you’re using fresh chopped dill, fold it in gently.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the loaf is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to finish cooling. The hardest part is resisting the urge to sneak a slice while it’s still steaming!
How to Serve Cheesy Pickle Bread
Garnishes
Brighten up your Cheesy Pickle Bread with a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or extra shredded cheddar on top before baking. For a mouthwatering finish, brush the warm loaf with a little melted butter and an extra dash of garlic powder. This adds both visual flair and an aromatic kick!
Side Dishes
This bread makes a playful partner for creamy tomato soup, loaded potato chowder, or a crisp garden salad. It also elevates snack platters—think cheese boards or pickled veggie spreads—thanks to its built-in flavors. Don’t be surprised if it vanishes before the main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice Cheesy Pickle Bread into bite-sized cubes for an appetizer plate, or serve open-faced with a swipe of cream cheese and an extra pickle slice. For a next-level brunch, use it as the base for savory French toast or as a clever sandwich bread for grilled cheese lovers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Cheesy Pickle Bread tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days, and the flavors meld even more as it sits. Just remember—moisture is key to keeping every slice just as fresh and tender as the first.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Pickle Bread! Cool the loaf completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, or place slices in a zip-top freezer bag. It’ll store well for up to two months—just make sure to thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your Cheesy Pickle Bread back to its fresh-baked glory, pop slices in a toaster or warm gently in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. If you love melty cheese, a quick broil will crisp the top and intensify those cheesy nooks.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese for Cheesy Pickle Bread?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar shines, you can experiment with Swiss, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda. Each type Snack.
Do I need to drain the pickles really well?
Yes, draining the pickles is important. Too much moisture can make the bread soggy or prevent it from cooking through. Pat those chopped pickles nice and dry for picture-perfect slices every time.
Can I make Cheesy Pickle Bread gluten-free?
You sure can! Swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum, and double-check that your pickles and other ingredients are gluten-free to keep everyone happy and safe.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The loaf should be golden, fragrant, and a toothpick poked into the center will come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking will dry it out, so keep an eye on it after 45 minutes.
Is Cheesy Pickle Bread vegetarian?
Yes, this savory snack is completely vegetarian as written. Just check your cheese and pickles if you’re serving strict vegetarians, as some brands use animal rennet or non-vegetarian brining methods.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your snack menu, Cheesy Pickle Bread is calling your name! It’s quirky, packed with personality, and just plain delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it—one bite and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for so many bread lovers and pickle fans alike!
Print
Cheesy Pickle Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Pickle Bread recipe combines the tangy flavor of dill pickles with sharp cheddar cheese in a savory quick bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and salads.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles (well-drained)
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add cheddar cheese and pickles.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and pickle juice. Pour into dry ingredients and mix gently.
- Add Dill: Fold in fresh dill, if desired. Transfer batter to the loaf pan and bake.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar with Swiss or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- For a spicier kick, add chopped pickled jalapeños.
- Store leftovers wrapped in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
