This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is a tasty treat! It’s packed with fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and your favorite herbs, all mixed into a fluffy bread.
You’ll love how quick it is to make—no kneading or waiting! Just mix the ingredients, pour in the beer, and bake. Perfect for snacks or alongside meals!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is a must for moisture and nutrients. If you don’t have zucchini, consider using grated carrots or yellow squash, which will add a different flavor but still keep the bread moist.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even a blend of different cheeses like Monterey Jack. For a vegan option, try using a dairy-free cheese blend.
Beer: The beer adds unique flavor and helps create a light texture. If you don’t drink alcohol, a non-alcoholic beer or sparkling water can work as substitutes. Just make sure it’s cold!
Dried Herbs: I love using Italian seasoning, but feel free to experiment. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley work too, but use about three times the amount since they’re less concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Bread Stays Moist?
The key to a moist Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is in the preparation of the zucchini. Before adding it to your batter, squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This prevents the bread from becoming too wet, ensuring a lovely texture.
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean towel, twist the towel, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Mix the dry ingredients and cheese first, then fold in the zucchini gently to keep it light.
By paying attention to the moisture of the zucchini, you’ll have a deliciously tender loaf every time!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle or can of beer (preferably a lager or ale), cold
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bread takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 45-55 minutes of baking. Allow for an extra 10 minutes of cooling before slicing. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, dried herbs, and black pepper. This combination will create a tasty base for your bread.
3. Add Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated zucchini, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. It’s essential to squeeze out any excess moisture from the zucchini first—this helps the bread stay just the right amount of moist!
4. Combine with Beer:
Now, pour the cold beer into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir the mixture until just combined; remember, it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy—overmixing can make the bread dense!
5. Transfer and Top:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If you like, brush the top with melted butter to create a beautiful golden crust while it bakes.
6. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean!
7. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for the best texture!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
After it’s cooled a little, slice your delicious Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It makes a perfect snack or side dish, especially alongside soups and salads. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with grated carrots, yellow squash, or even roasted red peppers. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from any of these vegetables to keep the bread from getting soggy.
What Kind of Beer Should I Use?
For the best flavor, choose a lager or ale. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, you can use non-alcoholic beer or even sparkling water. Just make sure whatever you choose is cold, as it helps with the bread’s texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Ingredients Like Bacon or Herbs?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon bits, jalapeños for a kick, or fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley. Just keep in mind that adding too many extra ingredients can affect the bread’s texture, so balance is key! Enjoy experimenting!
