Cheese Loaf Cake
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Mixing Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 50–55 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Intensity: Beginner to Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Loaf Cake
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil
- ¼ cup (60g) plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup diced jalapeños
- ¼ cup cooked bacon bits
Topping
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Oven
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Preheat your oven to:
350°F (175°C)
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Proper preparation ensures easy release after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
In a large bowl combine:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
Whisk thoroughly to distribute the leavening agents evenly.
Add:
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
Toss gently to coat the cheese with flour.
This helps prevent the cheese from sinking during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
In a separate bowl whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Greek yogurt
- Dijon mustard
Mix until smooth and fully combined.
The yogurt contributes moisture and tenderness to the loaf.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Time: 3 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Using a spatula, fold gently until no dry flour remains.
Do not overmix.
The batter should appear thick and slightly lumpy.
If using optional herbs or add-ins, fold them in now.
Step 5: Fill the Loaf Pan
Time: 2 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Spread evenly using a spatula.
Sprinkle the top with:
- Remaining cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
This creates a beautifully golden and cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake the Cheese Loaf Cake
Time: 50–55 Minutes
Intensity: Moderate
Place the loaf pan on the center rack.
Bake until:
- Golden brown on top
- Toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
- Internal temperature reaches approximately 200°F (93°C)
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil during the final 15 minutes.
The aroma of melted cheese will fill your kitchen as it bakes.
Step 7: Cool the Loaf
Time: 20 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Remove from the oven.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer carefully to a cooling rack.
Cool for an additional 10 minutes before slicing.
This resting period helps the loaf maintain its structure.
Tips for Success
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
Avoid Overmixing
Overworking the batter can result in a dense loaf.
Mix only until ingredients are combined.
Measure Flour Correctly
Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour into measuring cups.
Customize the Flavor
Experiment with herbs, spices, and different cheeses for unique variations.
Let It Rest
Allowing the loaf to cool slightly improves texture and makes slicing easier.
Flavor Variations
Herb Cheese Loaf
Add:
- Fresh rosemary
- Thyme
- Chives
The herbs provide a fragrant and savory twist.
Spicy Cheese Loaf
Add:
- Jalapeños
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Pepper Jack cheese
Perfect for those who enjoy extra heat.
Bacon Cheese Loaf
Fold in:
- Crispy cooked bacon bits
This version delivers a smoky, savory flavor.
Three-Cheese Loaf
Combine:
- Cheddar
- Parmesan
- Mozzarella
Creates an extra cheesy texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese Loaf Cake pairs wonderfully with:
- Tomato soup
- Vegetable soup
- Garden salads
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoked salmon
- Cream cheese spreads
- Butter
- Roasted vegetables
It also makes an excellent base for sandwiches.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator
Store for up to 5 days.
Reheat slices briefly before serving.
Freezer
Wrap individual slices tightly.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
Protein
Cheese, eggs, and milk contribute valuable protein that helps support muscle maintenance and satiety.
Calcium
Cheddar and Parmesan cheese provide calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
Energy
The combination of carbohydrates and fats offers sustained energy throughout the day.
Versatility
The loaf can be adapted to include vegetables, herbs, and additional protein-rich ingredients.
Nutrition Information
Per Slice (Based on 12 Servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 95mg
