This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is a winner! It’s soft and fluffy, packed with tasty zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and herbs, making it a perfect side for any meal.
Who knew beer could make bread so easy and fun? I love how quick this recipe is; just mix, pour, and bake. The smell while it bakes is enough to make anyone hungry! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your bread. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the right texture!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch of flavor. If you’re cheese-crazy, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini keeps the bread moist. If zucchini isn’t available, shredded carrots or even finely chopped spinach could work too, although they will change the flavor a bit!
Beer: Lager or ale is best, but if you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute with sparkling water or broth for extra flavor, though it may alter the bread’s texture slightly.
How Do I Mix the Ingredients Without Overmixing?
Overmixing your batter can lead to a dense bread, so here are some tips:
- Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ones to ensure even distribution.
- When folding in the beer and zucchini, use a gentle hand. Stir just until you see no dry flour. A few lumps are okay!
- Utilize a spatula to lift and fold rather than stirring in circles, which can develop gluten.
Remember, less is more! A little caution while mixing can lead to a fluffy bread that’s sure to impress.
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herb mix
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 12 oz (1 bottle) beer (lager or ale, room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 45-55 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Overall, you can expect to spend about an hour and a half before enjoying this delicious beer bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, take a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it well or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
2. Mixing Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano or Italian herb mix, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well blended, making sure there are no lumps.
3. Adding Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and shredded zucchini into the flour mixture. Take your time to mix until everything is evenly distributed, so each bite of bread is packed with flavor!
4. Bringing It All Together:
Slowly pour the beer into the mixture. Carefully stir until all the dry ingredients are just moistened. You want to avoid overmixing, so stop as soon as there are no dry spots; some lumps are completely fine!
5. Baking the Bread:
Pour the thick batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Finishing Touches:
If you like, brush the warm bread with melted butter right after it comes out of the oven for a shiny and delicious flavor boost!
7. Cooling and Slicing:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice and enjoy your homemade Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread!
Enjoy this moist, flavorful zucchini cheddar herb beer bread as a snack or side with soups and salads! Enjoy baking! 🍞
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen shredded zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the batter. Pat it dry with paper towels if needed to avoid a soggy bread.
What Type of Beer Should I Use?
A lager or ale works best for this recipe, but feel free to experiment! If you prefer a lighter flavor, opt for a light beer. For a stronger taste, a stout or IPA can add a unique twist, but may alter the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw and warm it in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to regain its freshness.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped herbs (like basil or thyme), or even diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that adding too many wet ingredients may affect the bread’s texture.
