This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a tasty treat that’s perfect for anyone! With fresh zucchini and gooey cheese mixed in a soft bread, it’s hard to resist a slice—or two!
Making this bread is a breeze! I love whipping it up when I have extra zucchini. It’s great for breakfast or a snack, and trust me, the smell while it bakes is simply heavenly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential here. It adds moisture and flavor. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well as a substitute.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind it may make the bread denser.
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for flavor and gooey texture. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the bread. If you’re vegan, a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, mixed and let sit) can work in place of each egg.
Oil: Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist, but melted coconut oil or butter adds extra flavor. If you need to reduce fat, you can use unsweetened applesauce.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Ready for This Recipe?
Preparing the zucchini properly is key to a great texture. Here’s how you can do it:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor for even shreds.
- Once grated, transfer it to a colander over the sink. Press down gently to release excess moisture. This step is crucial because too much liquid can make your bread soggy.
Taking time to prep the zucchini will help you achieve a perfect loaf that’s fluffy and packed with flavor!
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 powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar (optional for mild sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for 50-60 minutes. After that, let it cool for about 10-15 minutes in the pan. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including cooling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the bread from sticking.
2. Grate the Zucchini:
Using a box grater, grate the zucchini into fine shreds. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and press gently to remove any excess moisture. This step is important to keep the bread from getting soggy.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and optional dried herbs. This will ensure that everything is evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.
4. Add Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheese to your dry mixture, so it’s well-coated with flour. This helps the cheese to not sink to the bottom during baking.
5. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil (or melted butter), milk, and honey or sugar if you’re using it. This will create a smooth mixture that combines well with the dry ingredients.
6. Combine Wet and Dry:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until they are just combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make the bread tough!
7. Fold in Zucchini:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and any chopped herbs you’re using. Be careful to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. This helps it bake evenly throughout.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check it by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy your delicious Zucchini Cheese Bread as a snack or side dish!
This bread stays moist and flavorful, making it a perfect treat for beginners. Enjoy baking!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Can I use frozen zucchini in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen zucchini completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before adding it to the batter to avoid a soggy bread.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for about a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
What’s the best way to enjoy this bread?
This zucchini cheese bread is delicious on its own but can also be served warm with a bit of butter spread on top. It pairs nicely with soups or salads for a hearty meal.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients. You can also add nuts or seeds for extra texture. Just be sure not to add too much moisture, or it may affect the bread’s consistency.
