This Zucchini Cheddar Bread is a warm and cheesy delight that’s super easy to whip up! Packed with fresh zucchini and sharp cheddar, it’s perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack!
I love how this bread tastes so good fresh out of the oven, and it makes my kitchen smell amazing. Honestly, it often disappears before I can even save some for later! 😂
Baking this bread is a breeze—just mix everything together and let the oven do its magic. Plus, the zucchini keeps it moist, so you won’t be disappointed with this yummy treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrition to the bread. If you don’t have any on hand, you can replace it with shredded carrots for a sweet touch or try using summer squash for a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its bold flavor, but you can use mild cheddar or even mozzarella for a different taste. Vegan cheese is a great alternative if you want a dairy-free version!
Flour: All-purpose flour works best here, but whole wheat flour can be swapped in for a healthier option. Just note that it may make the bread denser.
Oil: I often use vegetable oil for its neutral flavor, but melted butter adds nice richness. You can also use applesauce as a low-fat alternative to keep the bread moist.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Shredded Zucchini?
Getting your zucchini shredded just right makes a huge difference in texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a box grater or food processor for efficiency.
- After shredding, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and twist it to squeeze out excess moisture. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Measure once you’ve squeezed out the water for the best accuracy!
Time spent on prepping your zucchini will pay off in delicious bread!
Best Zucchini Cheddar Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted butter)
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- ½ cup chopped green onions or chives (optional, adds a fresh bite)
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, enhances cheddar flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, balances flavors)
Time Needed:
You will need about 15 minutes to prepare all the ingredients, plus 50-60 minutes for baking. Allow for an additional 10 minutes to cool in the pan, making the total time around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that results in deliciously cheesy bread!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, you can prepare your loaf pan. Grease it lightly, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
2. Prep the Zucchini:
Next, shred the zucchini using a box grater or a food processor. Once shredded, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy bread!
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder (if using), oregano, and mustard powder (if using). This ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Then stir in the vegetable oil and honey or sugar until everything is well mixed.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
6. Fold in the Goodies:
Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese (if using), and chopped green onions or chives (if using). Make sure everything is evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
7. Transfer to the Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even surface.
8. Bake the Bread:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the bread’s texture.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the bread when it’s cool or still warm, and enjoy it as a delicious breakfast or snack! It pairs beautifully with soups and salads too. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
This savory zucchini cheddar bread is fantastic for breakfast, as a side with soups or salads, or just a delicious snack! Happy baking!
FAQ about Zucchini Cheddar Bread
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for this Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the batter. Frozen zucchini can actually work quite well in baked goods!
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months!
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can substitute with mild cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor profile a bit.
What Can I Serve With Zucchini Cheddar Bread?
This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a side for any meal. You can also toast slices and add toppings like butter or cream cheese for a tasty snack!
