If you love a quirky twist on classic bread baking, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Easy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe. Imagine a moist, fluffy loaf with bursts of tangy dill pickles, a rich cheesy depth, and a subtle hint of garlic that lifts every bite. This is not just any bread—it’s a delightful blend of savory flavors that makes for an irresistible snack or a perfect pairing for your favorite soups and sandwiches. Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or simply love trying fun, flavorful breads, this recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a vital role in building the bread’s unique flavor and texture. From the fluffy buttermilk to the crispy shredded cheddar, every component works together to bring this loaf to life.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your bread, providing structure and softness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise just right, giving it that perfect fluffiness.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk for a light, airy crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the pickle tang.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory undertone that complements the dill pickles beautifully.
- 1 cup chopped dill pickles (well-drained): The star ingredient that infuses every bite with tangy crunch.
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill): Brings an herby freshness to brighten the bread.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of gooey, sharp goodness throughout the loaf.
- ¾ cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang while reacting with the baking soda for lift.
- ¼ cup pickle juice: A simple secret that amps up the pickle flavor in the bread.
- 2 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the ingredients perfectly.
- ¼ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist in every slice.
How to Make Easy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by warming up your oven to 350°F. While it preheats, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent any sticking and make sure your bread comes out in one perfect piece.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed and you don’t end up with pockets of baking soda or salt in the loaf.
Step 3: Add Pickles, Dill, and Cheese
Next, fold in the chopped dill pickles, fresh or dried dill, and shredded cheddar cheese. Coating these ingredients evenly in the flour mixture helps them disperse beautifully throughout the bread without sinking to the bottom.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, pickle juice, eggs, and vegetable oil. This mixture is where the moisture and tang come from, giving the bread that signature flavor and tender crumb.
Step 5: Bring it All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and stir gently just until combined. It’s key not to overmix here; you want the batter to be lumpy to keep your bread light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top for an even rise. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Easy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar or some fresh dill on top before baking for a golden, flavorful crust that will catch everyone’s eye. A light brush of melted butter on warm slices adds a luscious sheen and extra richness.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs perfectly with comforting bowls of tomato soup, creamy chowders, or classic grilled cheese sandwiches. The zingy dill and cheese in the bread can elevate simple dishes into a memorable meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving it sliced alongside a charcuterie board with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, and pickles. Or, use thick slices toasted as a base for open-faced sandwiches topped with smoked salmon and cream cheese for a delightful appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate the wrapped bread where it will stay moist and tasty for several more days.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices for up to 3 months. Wrap the bread well in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw slices at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back the fresh-baked aroma and texture, toast your slices or warm them in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes. This revives the melty cheese and crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.
FAQs
Can I use dried pickles instead of fresh chopped pickles?
Dried pickles aren’t recommended for this recipe because the moisture in fresh chopped pickles adds important texture and tang. Fresh or well-drained pickles deliver the best flavor and moisture balance.
Is it necessary to use pickle juice?
While optional, pickle juice intensifies the signature pickle flavor and adds moisture to the bread. Using water instead will still produce good bread but with less zing.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another cheese?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar is ideal for its flavor, but you can try pepper jack for a bit of spice or gouda for a creamier texture. Just make sure the cheese you use melts well.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make this bread gluten-free, try swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, so monitor the bake time closely.
Is this Easy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This bread contains no meat or animal gelatin, so it fits well into a vegetarian diet. Just double-check your cheese to ensure it doesn’t contain animal rennet if that’s a concern.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe is a quirky, savory delight that brings something fresh to your table with every slice. Its bright, bold flavors and tender crumb are sure to impress your family and friends, whether you serve it as a snack or as part of a meal. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients, dive into this fun baking adventure, and enjoy the delicious results that celebrate one of life’s tastiest quirks.
Print
Easy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Dill Pickle Bread combines the tangy crunch of chopped dill pickles with sharp cheddar cheese and fragrant dill for a savory quick bread that’s perfect for snacks, sandwiches, or alongside soups. Moist and flavorful, it’s a unique twist on classic bread that comes together quickly and bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Main Mix-ins
- 1 cup chopped dill pickles (well-drained)
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup pickle juice
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder until evenly mixed.
- Add Mix-ins: Stir in chopped dill pickles, fresh or dried dill, and shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring each piece is coated with the flour mixture to prevent sinking during baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, eggs, and vegetable oil until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and light.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheese or dill on top before baking.
- This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, sandwiches, or as a savory snack on its own.
- Store leftovers wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days; refrigerate to extend shelf life.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
