This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a wonderful mix of fluffy bread and cheesy goodness with a touch of healthy zucchini. It’s perfect for breakfast or a snack anytime!
I love that it’s super simple to make, just mix everything and bake! Plus, if you sneak in a piece while it’s warm, no one will judge you. 😉 Enjoy it with butter for a cozy treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential for moisture and texture. If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can substitute it with cooked and mashed carrots or even grated summer squash for a similar effect.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its strong flavor. However, feel free to try mozzarella for a milder taste or a blend of cheeses for variety. If you’re lactose intolerant, look for lactose-free cheese options.
Sour Cream or Yogurt: This adds moisture and richness. You can skip it, but if you don’t have either, a little extra oil or milk will also work. Greek yogurt can also be an excellent substitute for a tangy flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can try whole wheat flour for added nutrients or a gluten-free blend if you’re avoiding gluten. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly.
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini Bread is Moist but Not Dense?
A common struggle with zucchini bread is ensuring it’s moist without becoming dense. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance:
- Start by squeezing out excess moisture from the grated zucchini to prevent the batter from being too wet.
- Mix the wet ingredients gently without overmixing. This keeps the bread light and fluffy.
- Be careful not to pack the flour. Use a spoon to scoop it into the measuring cup, then level with a knife.
- Finally, test for doneness with a toothpick—remove it from the oven as soon as it comes out clean, even if it’s a little early.
With these tips, you’ll end up with delicious, moist zucchini bread that everyone will love!
Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- ½ cup grated zucchini (about 1 small zucchini, squeezed dry)
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt (optional for moisture)
- Cheese and Extras:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini cheese bread will take around 15 minutes to prepare and 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, you should have tasty bread ready in about an hour and a half. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s perfect for beginners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a box grater and make sure to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps keep the bread from getting too soggy.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder (if using), and dried oregano until everything is well mixed.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then add the vegetable oil and sour cream (if you’re using it). Mix well until everything is combined.
5. Add Zucchini:
Stir in the grated zucchini into the wet mixture until it’s evenly mixed throughout.
6. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread nice and fluffy!
7. Fold in Cheeses and Extras:
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and green onions or chives if you’re using them.
8. Bake:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious zucchini cheese bread warm or at room temperature!
This cheesy zucchini bread is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the batter. This will help maintain the right texture in your bread.
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all or part of the all-purpose flour for a more wholesome bread. Just be aware that the texture may be denser, so you might want to add an extra tablespoon of liquid if it seems too thick.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2-3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers, or even spices such as paprika or red pepper flakes for a kick. Just keep in mind that extra moisture from additional veggies may affect the texture, so adjust flour accordingly.
