Save A uniquely savory-sweet loaf combining the tang of dill pickles, the subtle sweetness of brewed tea, and sharp cheddar in a tender, biscuit-like muffin bread.
The first time I baked this, my kitchen filled with the aroma of cheddar and fresh dill, and everyone wanted to know what magic was happening in the oven. The loaf sliced up beautifully, and my family enjoyed it warm with a smear of herbed butter.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups (280 g)
- Baking powder: 1 tbsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Brewed sweet tea, cooled: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Dill pickle juice: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
- Large egg: 1
- Unsalted butter, melted and cooled: 1/3 cup (75 g)
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 cup (110 g)
- Dill pickles, finely diced: 2/3 cup (90 g)
- Fresh dill, chopped (or dried dill): 2 tbsp fresh or 2 tsp dried
Instructions
- Prepare loaf pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk sweet tea, milk, pickle juice, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
- Combine mixtures:
- Add the wet mix to dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Add cheese and pickles:
- Fold in cheddar, diced pickles, and dill until evenly distributed.
- Bake:
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Save Sharing this loaf at family brunch, my folks were amazed by the sweet tea twist with the pickles. It was gone before I could snap a photo of the last slice!
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk and spatula, 9x5-inch loaf pan, parchment paper, wire rack, measuring cups and spoons are recommended for smooth preparation.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, eggs, wheat (gluten), dairy. Always check labels on store-bought cheese and pickles for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each slice (about 1/8 loaf) provides 230 calories, 10 g fat, 26 g carbs, and 7 g protein, making it a savory snack or breakfast option.
Save This loaf comes together quickly and makes a memorable treat with its tangy, cheesy, and slightly sweet notes. Slice, serve, and enjoy the twist!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, substitute 2 teaspoons dried dill for the 2 tablespoons of fresh dill if fresh is unavailable.
- → What gives this loaf its unique tang?
Dill pickle juice and diced pickles provide a signature tartness balanced by cheddar and sweet tea.
- → Is it possible to replace the cheddar?
Absolutely. Gruyère or Monterey Jack are great alternatives for milder flavor in the loaf.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Wrap the loaf at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to one week for freshness.
- → What pairs well as a spread?
Whipped cream cheese or herbed butter complement the savory notes and enhance the loaf’s taste.
- → Can pickled jalapeños be added?
For extra tang and a spicy hint, fold in 1–2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños with the add-ins.