This quick zucchini beer bread is a fun mix of fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and tasty herbs. It’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for snack time or as a side for dinner!
Making this bread is super easy—the beer helps it rise without the fuss of yeast. I love slicing it warm and slathering on some butter. You’ll want to make extra, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is your base for the bread. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free flour blend; it works well. I find that using whole wheat flour gives a nuttier flavor, but it may slightly alter the texture.
Beer: Any lager or ale will work, but choose one you enjoy drinking. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute it with sparkling water or non-alcoholic beer for a similar texture.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrition. If you don’t have zucchini, shredded carrots or even finely chopped bell peppers can be fun substitutes. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture like you would with zucchini.
Sharp cheddar cheese: While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, feel free to mix it up! White cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend with mozzarella can create delicious variations.
Dried herbs: I love using Italian seasoning but feel free to experiment! Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also brighten up the flavor if you have them on hand.
How Do I Make Sure My Beer Bread Comes Out Fluffy?
The key to fluffy beer bread lies in the mixing technique and baking time. Here are the steps to ensure success:
- Mix the dry ingredients first to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt.
- When adding the beer, do it gently. Overmixing can make the bread tough—this batter should appear lumpy!
- Use a toothpick or knife to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready to come out of the oven!
- Let the bread cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it. This helps it set further without falling apart.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have soft and delicious beer bread every time! Enjoy this tasty treat warm with butter or as a side with your favorite soup.
Quick Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as Italian seasoning or a mix of thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 12 oz (1 can or bottle) beer, preferably a lager or ale at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (plus extra for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful beer bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 45–50 minutes to bake. You’ll have freshly baked zucchini cheddar bread in just over an hour—perfect for a quick bite or a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking later on.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything is well mixed.
3. Add Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the grated zucchini. This will give your bread a wonderful flavor and texture—mix until everything is evenly distributed!
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Now, pour in the beer and olive oil (or melted butter). Gently fold the mixture together until just combined. The batter should be thick but slightly lumpy; remember, don’t overmix!
5. Transfer to Loaf Pan:
Carefully pour the batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it’s even.
6. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the bread should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean once it’s done.
7. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step makes it easier to cut without falling apart!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
This bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with a pat of butter. Feel free to get creative with toppings as well!
This quick zucchini cheddar herb beer bread boasts a moist crumb and the perfect savory cheesy and herbal flavor—great for a homemade snack or side dish!
FAQ for Quick Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, white cheddar, or even pepper jack for a kick. Just keep the total amount around 1 cup.
What If I Don’t Have Beer on Hand?
No problem! You can substitute the beer with an equal amount of sparkling water or a non-alcoholic beer. Both options will help achieve the same light texture in your bread!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover 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 and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw and rewarm before serving!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in additional goodies like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even crispy bacon bits for added flavor. Just make sure not to overload the batter to keep it from becoming too wet.
