This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a fantastic mix of fresh zucchini and gooey cheese! It’s simple to make and perfect as a snack or side dish.
What I love is how the zucchini keeps the bread nice and moist. Plus, you can enjoy it warm straight from the oven, or toast it for breakfast! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and flavor. If you don’t have zucchini, consider using grated carrots or even cooked spinach for a similar texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Just note that it may make the bread a bit denser.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to mix things up! A blend of mozzarella and Gouda can add great flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese.
Yogurt/Sour Cream: This ingredient keeps the bread moist. If you don’t have it, a similar amount of buttermilk or even a dairy-free yogurt can work well.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini Cheese Bread Is Moist and Delicious?
The key to keeping your bread moist is in how you prepare the zucchini. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. Too much liquid can cause your bread to be soggy.
- When grating the zucchini, try to get about 2 cups. Use the large holes on your grater for best results.
- Incorporate the wet ingredients gently with the dry to avoid overmixing. This will help keep the texture light.
- Check for doneness using a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Let your bread cool properly to set the texture before slicing. Enjoy it warm or toasted for an extra delicious treat!
Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
Optional:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives
Time Needed:
This delicious Zucchini Cheese Bread takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50-60 minutes to bake, for a total of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Enjoy a delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a side with dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready for the bread when you’re done mixing. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if using), and oregano. This combines everything evenly and makes sure there are no lumps.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs. Then add in the olive oil (or melted butter) and yogurt (or sour cream). Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixes:
Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. You want to avoid overmixing for a light texture!
5. Add the Zucchini and Cheese:
Now, fold in the grated zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and any optional fresh herbs you like. Be gentle with the mixing to keep the zucchini moist and the cheeses evenly spread.
6. Pour and Level the Batter:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to level the top so it bakes evenly.
7. Bake Your Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a bit more time in the oven.
8. Cool Down:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the bread’s texture!
9. Slice and Serve!
Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. This Zucchini Cheese Bread is perfect as a savory snack, a side dish, or even for breakfast!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the batter. Squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel to help with this.
What Can I Substitute for Plain Yogurt or Sour Cream?
If you don’t have plain yogurt or sour cream, you can substitute with an equal amount of buttermilk or a dairy-free yogurt for a similar effect. This will help keep the bread moist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
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, you can freeze slices in a freezer-friendly bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in other ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even cooked bacon for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that this may affect the moisture level of the bread, so adjust the zucchini accordingly!
