Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line loaf pan.
Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and pepper.
Fold in 1 ½ cups cheddar. Reserve ½ cup for topping.
In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, butter, eggs, and honey.
Combine wet and dry, fold gently until just mixed.
Add optional chives, jalapeños, or herbs.
Transfer batter to loaf pan, top with reserved cheddar.
Bake 45–50 minutes until golden and springy in center.
Cool 10 minutes in pan, then on rack before slicing.