Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

In another bowl, whisk together milk and egg (if using) until smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for about 45 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.