Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Savory zucchini cheddar quick bread is a delightful, cheesy, and moist bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish. Packed with fresh zucchini and sharp cheddar cheese, this quick bread is easy to make and doesn’t require yeast, making it a hassle-free baking option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No yeast is required, making it a quick and simple bake.
• A perfect way to use up an abundance of zucchini.
• Moist, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
• Great as a side dish, snack, or even toasted with butter.
• Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Eggs
• Milk
• Olive oil
• Shredded zucchini
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Green onions (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk and olive oil, mixing until combined.
4. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded zucchini and fold it into the batter along with the shredded cheddar cheese and green onions.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary.
• Different Cheese: Try Parmesan, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent my bread from becoming too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter. Stir until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese is best as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, the skin is soft and adds extra nutrients and color to the bread.

How do I remove excess moisture from zucchini?

After shredding, place the zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk and cheese alternative.

Why is my bread crumbly?

Too much flour or not enough moisture can make the bread crumbly. Be sure to measure ingredients properly.

Can I add protein to this bread?

Yes, cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham make great protein additions.

Can I bake this in muffin tins?

Yes! Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.

What should I serve with this bread?

It pairs well with soups, salads, or simply with butter and honey.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be frozen for later use.

Conclusion

Savory zucchini cheddar quick bread is a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together the goodness of zucchini and cheese in a moist, tender loaf. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a snack, or a complement to a meal, this easy-to-make bread is sure to become a favorite. Try out different variations and enjoy homemade, comforting goodness in every bite!

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