If you love the idea of combining fresh garden flavors with cheesy comfort, this Zucchini Cheese Bread Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine a moist, tender loaf studded with sharp cheddar, fragrant herbs, and succulent zucchini that adds just the right touch of freshness. This savory quick bread is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also versatile enough to serve alongside your favorite meals or enjoy all by itself as a satisfying snack. Dive in and discover how this delightful zucchini cheese bread can elevate simple ingredients into a warm, comforting treasure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this zucchini cheese bread recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make every bite simply irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing the structure and light crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise to a fluffy, tender texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to achieve a subtle lift and moist crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the savory flavors.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle hint of savory depth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Brings a lovely herbal note that pairs beautifully with the cheese and zucchini.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar): Offers acidity for tenderness and helps activate the baking soda.
- ¼ cup melted butter: Adds moistness and a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1½ cups grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture): Keeps the bread moist and fresh with a subtle vegetable sweetness.
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that melty, savory punch.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a touch of nutty sharpness for an extra layer of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions: Provides freshness and a subtle onion bite that brightens the bread.
How to Make Zucchini Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. This little step makes sure your zucchini cheese bread comes out effortlessly, keeping its beautiful shape without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. This blend of dry ingredients builds the backbone of flavor and texture, setting the stage for a perfectly seasoned bread.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth and slightly frothy. This mixture brings moisture and richness, which will give the bread its tender crumb and irresistible bite.
Step 4: Blend the Batter
Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, making sure to combine just until you no longer see flour patches. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so be gentle here. Once combined, fold in the grated zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, optional Parmesan, and chopped chives. These additions not only boost flavor but also create delightful pockets of melty cheese and bursts of freshness throughout.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting from your oven during this time is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the zucchini cheese bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps it set and makes removal easier. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or enjoy it warm; both ways are equally delicious!
How to Serve Zucchini Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh chives, a light dusting of grated Parmesan, or even a drizzle of olive oil right before serving to add an extra touch of color and flavor. These simple garnishes elevate the bread’s appearance and taste effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Zucchini cheese bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try it alongside a fresh garden salad, a warm bowl of tomato soup, or even with a plate of scrambled eggs for a satisfying brunch. Its comforting, savory flavor complements both light and hearty meals beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn slices of this zucchini cheese bread into mini sandwiches with creamy spreads or roasted veggies for a perfect party appetizer. Or cut it into cubes and serve as part of a savory bread pudding or strata for a delightful twist that friends and family will rave about!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover zucchini cheese bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about two days, or in the fridge for up to a week, making it convenient for quick snacks or meal prep.
Freezing
You can freeze this bread either whole or sliced. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To bring your zucchini cheese bread back to life, slice it and toast it lightly or warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This refreshes the bread’s crumb and gives it a lovely, just-baked aroma that’s impossible to resist.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk in this zucchini cheese bread recipe?
Yes, absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply add 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to ½ cup of regular milk and let it sit for a few minutes before using. This mixture will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and yield the same tender texture.
Do I have to squeeze the zucchini before adding it to the bread?
Squeezing out excess moisture from the grated zucchini is highly recommended. Too much water can make the bread soggy and prevent it from baking properly. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press the zucchini firmly before folding it into the batter.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar gives a nice balance of flavor and meltiness, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend to suit your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses will change the overall flavor of the bread.
Is this zucchini cheese bread recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians as it contains no meat or meat-based ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a cheesy, vegetable-packed bread without compromising your dietary choices.
How long does zucchini cheese bread keep fresh?
Freshly baked zucchini cheese bread is best enjoyed within two days when stored at room temperature. Refrigerating it extends its freshness up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is a great option and preserves its texture and flavor well.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this zucchini cheese bread recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect mix of cheesy, herby, and fresh with a moist texture that delights every time. Whether you’re serving it as a side, an appetizer, or a cozy snack, it’s sure to bring smiles around the table. So grab those zucchinis and let the baking begin!
Print
Zucchini Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices)
- Category: Side Dish, Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This savory Zucchini Cheese Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread packed with grated zucchini and sharp cheddar cheese, enhanced with Parmesan and fresh chives. Perfect as a side dish or a savory breakfast option, this bread offers a delicious way to incorporate vegetables into your meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
- ¼ cup melted butter
Main Add-ins
- 1½ cups grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients and mix gently just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Zucchini and Cheese: Carefully fold in the grated zucchini (after squeezing out moisture), shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese if using, and chopped fresh chives or green onions until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside soups, salads, or enjoy as a savory breakfast treat.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- This bread pairs wonderfully with soups and salads or can be served as a tasty savory breakfast option.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella or a cheese blend for cheddar to vary the flavor profile.
