This Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is a warm and tasty treat, packed with cheesy goodness and fresh herbs. The squash adds a lovely sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly!
Making this bread is a breeze – just mix, bake, and enjoy! I love serving it warm with a little butter on top; it’s enough to make anyone smile! 😊🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Squash: Butternut or acorn squash is great for this recipe. Both add a nice sweetness. If squash isn’t available, you could use pumpkin puree or even sweet potato for a delicious twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a lovely flavor. If you want to switch it up, try pepper jack for a little heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep the cheese handy to ensure it melts well.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary offer wonderful aroma and flavor. Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so don’t hesitate to swap if you have them! Oregano or basil can also work in a pinch.
Oil vs. Butter: I usually use vegetable oil for moisture, but melted butter adds a richer flavor. If you have dietary restrictions, you can also use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Bread Isn’t Dense?
A common challenge with baking quick breads is achieving a light and fluffy texture. To avoid a dense result, follow these tips:
- Be careful not to overmix when combining wet and dry ingredients. Mixing should stop when just combined.
- Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Old leavening agents might not rise as well.
- Don’t pack the flour into your measuring cup; scoop it gently and level it off for accurate measurement.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll end up with a delightful Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread that everyone will love!
Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bread:
- 1 cup cooked and mashed squash (such as butternut or acorn squash)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and around 50-60 minutes of baking time, making it approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring your 9×5 inch loaf pan or lining it with parchment paper will help prevent the bread from sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper until everything is well-mixed and free of lumps.
3. Add Cheese:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it gets evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This will add delicious cheesy bites in every slice!
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the cooked and mashed squash, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and honey (if you’re using it). Mix well until everything is smooth and blended together.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, and gently stir until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy; overmixing can make the bread tough.
6. Pour into Pan:
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
7. Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the bread’s texture.
9. Serve:
Finally, slice your delicious Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. Try it with a little butter or cream cheese for an extra treat!
Enjoy your flavorful Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread! 🌿🧀
FAQ About Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While butternut or acorn squash works best, you can also use pumpkin puree or sweet potato if you have them on hand. Just ensure they are well-cooked and mashed for a smooth texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can slice it and freeze individual pieces for up to 3 months. Just thaw and toast to enjoy later!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, like almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose mix. Be sure to check if the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps give the bread structure!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Bread?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your bread by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, chopped spinach, or even nuts for added texture and flavor. Just make sure not to add too much extra moisture.
