This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a tasty mix of zucchini, cheese, and rich flavors. It’s super moist and perfect for any time of day—from breakfast to a snack!
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! I love serving it warm with a bit of butter on top. You might just want to make an extra loaf to share… or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your bread. If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour instead, but it may change the texture slightly.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for moisture. If you don’t have zucchini on hand, shredded carrots can be a surprising yet tasty substitute.
Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for its sharp flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella gives a nice meltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese.
Sour Cream/Yogurt: Both add moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap it for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
How Do You Squeeze Zucchini for the Best Texture?
Removing excess moisture from your zucchini is crucial for a good loaf. Too much water can make your bread dense and soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate your zucchini using a box grater.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Twist and squeeze to get out as much liquid as possible.
- This step ensures your bread stays moist but not too wet!
Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for savory flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1/3 cup sour cream or plain yogurt (for moisture)
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prep and about 50-60 minutes to bake. Letting it cool for 10 minutes before slicing allows the flavors to settle, making it even more delicious. So, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes total for this baking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure your bread comes out easily once it’s baked.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano until everything is well combined. This will give your bread its yummy flavor and texture!
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the two large eggs, then add the vegetable oil and sour cream (or yogurt). Mix these ingredients well until they’re smooth and well blended. This mixture will keep your bread nice and moist.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Now it’s time to fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients! Gently mix them together until just combined; don’t overmix, or your bread may become tough.
5. Add Veggies and Cheese:
Next, stir in the grated zucchini, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions if you’re using them. This is where your zucchini cheese bread gets all its deliciousness! You’ll end up with a colorful, cheesy batter.
6. Pour Batter and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top if you want an extra cheesy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes.
7. Check for Doneness:
To check if your bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready! If there’s wet batter, give it another few minutes in the oven.
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. This helps to enhance the textures and flavors!
9. Enjoy Your Bread:
Slice and enjoy your warm, delicious zucchini cheese bread! It’s perfect on its own, with a bit of butter, or served alongside soup or a salad. If you have any leftovers, keep them wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Happy Baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. You can also use a mix of both for a lighter loaf that’s still nutritious.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Grated carrots or bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture as you did with the zucchini.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Cheese Bread?
Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying!
What Kind of Cheese Works Best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices! However, you can use any cheese you like or a combination for different flavors. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses like blue may overpower the dish.
