Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Zucchini Cheese Bread is a delicious twist on traditional zucchini bread, combining tender shredded zucchini with savory cheddar cheese. Moist, flavorful, and slightly crispy on the outside, it’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or toasted with butter for breakfast. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak extra vegetables into your meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- zucchini, shredded
- all-purpose flour
- cheddar cheese, shredded
- eggs
- unsalted butter, melted
- sugar
- baking powder
- baking soda
- salt
- garlic powder
- black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Squeeze excess moisture from shredded zucchini using a clean towel.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, beat eggs lightly, then add melted butter and sugar, mixing until combined.
- Fold shredded zucchini and cheddar cheese into the wet mixture.
- Gradually combine wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Servings and Timing
- Yields: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 50-60 minutes
- Cooling time: 10-15 minutes
- Total time: 75-90 minutes
Variations
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute cheddar cheese with parmesan or mozzarella.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- Add cooked bacon pieces for added savory depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.
- Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave briefly before serving.
FAQs
Should I peel the zucchini?
No, leaving the skin adds nutrition, color, and texture.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but thoroughly thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first.
Is this bread sweet or savory?
This is a savory bread with a subtle sweetness from the sugar to balance flavors.
Can I make muffins instead?
Absolutely! Adjust baking time to 20-25 minutes for muffins.
Can I skip the cheese?
You can, but the cheese adds flavor and moisture.
Why is my bread soggy?
Ensure you thoroughly squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
Zucchini Cheese Bread is a savory delight that’s both comforting and nutritious. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and offers a delicious way to use fresh zucchini. Perfect served warm with butter, this bread will quickly become a family favorite.
PrintZucchini Cheese Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious, savory bread loaded with shredded zucchini and cheese, perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded zucchini, drained
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, oil, and buttermilk together. Stir in zucchini and cheese.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow bread to cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best results.
- Draining the zucchini thoroughly prevents sogginess.
- Store bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.