Easy and Delicious One Bowl Ham and Cheese Quick Bread

The Ham and Cheese Quick Bread is a simple but effective recipe, ideal to propose as an appetizer at the beginning of a special evening with guests or to serve in slices for a brunch with friends together with a glass of prosecco.

Making it at home is quick and easy. Simply mix the beaten eggs with the milk, seed oil, flour, baking powder and grated parmesan in a bowl, then add the diced ham to the creamy and smooth mixture obtained and pour everything into a plumcake mold, lined with baking paper, filling the dough in the center with diced mozzarella well drained from the whey. The passage in the oven will do the rest, giving a tasty and stringy rustic to the bite, excellent to bring to the table also for a party buffet or to enjoy as a single dish in front of the TV combined with a portion of grilled vegetables.

What is Ham and Cheese Quick Bread?

Quick bread has its roots in the 19th century, when the discovery of chemical leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda revolutionized baking. Before this, most breads required yeast and long fermentation times. Quick bread became popular in Europe and the United States, offering a faster and more convenient way to bake loaves, muffins, and biscuits without the need for yeast.

The savory ham and cheese version is a variation that likely originated in France and Italy, where combining cured meats and cheeses in baked goods has long been a tradition. This type of bread, often called "cake salé" in French cuisine, is a staple in picnics, brunches, and casual meals, thanks to its fluffy texture and rich, savory flavors. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide, with different regions adding their own twists using local cheeses, herbs, or vegetables.

Pro Tips for The Best Ham and Cheese Quick Bread?

• Use good-quality ham, preferably cooked or cured, for the best texture and flavor.
• Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of soft and fluffy.
• If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk or yogurt to keep the bread moist. Avoid adding too much ham or cheese, as excess fillings can affect the rise.
• Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's ready. If wet batter sticks to it, bake for a few more minutes.
• Allow the bread to cool slightly before cutting to prevent crumbling and help flavors develop.

What's The Best Cheese for This Quick Bread?

The best cheeses for ham and cheese quick bread are semi-hard, flavorful, and melt well. Great options include Gruyère, Cheddar, Parmesan, or Emmental, as they add a rich, savory taste without making the bread too greasy. Avoid cheeses that release too much moisture, like fresh mozzarella, as they can affect the bread’s texture. For extra depth, you can also mix two types, such as Cheddar for creaminess and Parmesan for a salty kick.

Can I Add Anything Else to This Bread?

Yes! You can customize ham and cheese quick bread by adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for extra flavor. Olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions add a Mediterranean twist, while nuts like walnuts or pecans provide crunch. For a spicier version, mix in black pepper, paprika, or chili flakes. Just be careful not to overload the batter, as too many add-ins can affect the bread’s texture.

Why is My Bread to Though and Dense?

If your ham and cheese quick bread turned out dense and tough, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter, which develops too much gluten and makes the bread heavy. Another reason could be not enough leavening agent (baking powder or baking soda) or using expired ones, preventing proper rise. Also, baking at too low a temperature or not measuring ingredients correctly (too much flour, not enough liquid) can lead to a dense texture.

Can This Quick Bread Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, ham and cheese quick bread can be made ahead of time! You can bake it a day in advance and store it at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 2 days.

Does This Ham and Cheese Quick Bread Freeze Well?

Yes, ham and cheese quick bread freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 1 month. For convenience, you can also freeze individual slices. To serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight or reheat slices in the oven or microwave for a freshly baked texture.

How to Store Ham and Cheese Quick Bread

To store leftovers, keep them wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate it for 4-5 days. To refresh, warm it slightly in the oven or microwave.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Quick Bread

Collect the eggs and seed oil in a bowl.

Pour the milk at room temperature and season with salt and pepper.

Beat the ingredients with a whisk until the mixture is light and frothy.

In a separate bowl, sift the flour with the yeast.

Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, little by little and always mixing with a whisk.

At the end you should obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture.

Then add the grated parmesan and mix again.

Finally, add the diced ham.

Pour half the mixture into a 25x12cm loaf cake mold, already lined with a sheet of parchment paper, and fill the center with the diced mozzarella cheese, well drained from the whey; then cover with the remaining mixture.

Place in a static oven preheated to 360°F/180°C and leave to bake for approximately 45 minutes.

Once baked, take the quick bread out of the oven and leave it to cool on a rack.

Enjoy!