This Zucchini Cheese Bread is a simple and tasty treat! It mixes fresh zucchini with gooey cheese, making it a perfect snack or side. Plus, it’s great for using up extra veggies!
Whenever I bake this bread, my kitchen smells amazing! I love to enjoy a warm slice with butter—it’s just so comforting. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll love it too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the main base for your bread. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute whole wheat flour. Just be aware that it may make the bread denser.
Baking powder and baking soda: These are your leavening agents. Make sure they are fresh for the best rise. If you don’t have baking soda, you can skip it, but the bread might be a bit denser.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for moisture. If you don’t have any on hand, grated carrots could work as a substitute, though the flavor will change a bit.
Cheddar cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a robust flavor, but feel free to swap in mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for a different twist or to meet dietary needs.
Eggs: If you’re looking for an egg-free option, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a binder.
How Can I Ensure My Bread Rises Properly?
Getting that perfect rise in your zucchini cheese bread is important. First, always check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. This ensures they have the strength to help the bread rise.
- Mix dry ingredients well to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the bread to collapse.
Letting the bread cool for a bit after baking is also crucial, as it helps set the texture and flavor. Enjoy your fresh bread!
Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini cheese bread requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 45-55 minutes of baking time. Plus, you’ll need a bit of time to cool it down before slicing. It’s quite easy to make, even for beginners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for your bread. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make sure the bread comes out easily later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and black pepper. This will ensure everything is well combined.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the oil (or melted butter) and milk. Make sure everything is mixed nicely!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir just until they are combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the bread tough!
5. Add the Good Stuff:
Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, and any fresh herbs if you’re using them. This will give your bread a lovely flavor and texture.
6. Pour into the Pan:
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top for an even bake.
7. Bake the Bread:
Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s finished when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Bread:
Once it’s done, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
9. Enjoy:
Slice your zucchini cheese bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature! It’s delicious as is or with a bit of butter.
This zucchini cheese bread is a perfect blend of moist and cheesy goodness, making it a fantastic choice for beginners looking for a savory treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour! Keep in mind that the bread may be denser. You might also want to add a bit more moisture to the batter if needed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this zucchini cheese bread dairy-free, simply use a dairy-free cheese substitute and replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. The flavors will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover zucchini cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Bread?
Absolutely! You can add finely chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just be sure to keep the total amount of wet ingredients in check to maintain the right consistency of the batter.
