Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make bread recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this mouthwatering zucchini cheddar quick bread! This savory loaf is a delightful blend of hearty shredded zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of green onions, creating a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more.

The best part about this zucchini cheddar quick bread is that it requires minimal effort and time, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. The cheesy top crust adds a golden crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender crumb of the bread, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you enjoy it warm with a pat of butter, toasted with your favorite toppings, or paired with soups and salads, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, if you’re looking for a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that celebrates the classic combination of zucchini and cheddar, give this zucchini cheddar quick bread a try. With its comforting aroma filling your kitchen and its irresistible taste leaving everyone craving more, this bread is bound to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making double batches to share with friends and family or to stash in the freezer for future indulgence.

Quick Benefits

• Hearty and versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack, this zucchini cheddar quick bread is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
• Deliciously cheesy: The sharp cheddar cheese creates a golden, crusty top that adds a rich and savory flavor reminiscent of the best part of a grilled cheese sandwich.
• Easy to customize: Swap ingredients like green onions with chives or try different cheeses for a unique twist. Plus, add herbs or spices for extra flavor variations.
• Freezer-friendly: Make extra loaves or mini loaves to freeze for busy mornings, and enjoy a fresh-baked taste by thawing slices in the toaster or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe Recipe

• Cozy Homemade Bread Flavor: Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade bread without the fuss or rise time.
• Hearty and Versatile: Suitable for breakfast or brunch, and pairs well with soups, salads, or as a snack.
• Savory and Cheesy: Sharp cheddar cheese creates golden crusty bits reminiscent of the best part of grilled cheese.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or gatherings, the loaf disappears quickly and gets recipe requests.
• Endless Variations: Customize with different cheeses, herbs, or spices for a unique twist each time you bake.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make extra loaves to freeze for busy mornings or quick snacks; just thaw and reheat for a fresh taste.
• Easy Storage: Store slices at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a few days, keeping slices separate to prevent sogginess.
• Midwest Comfort: Enjoy the beloved American combo of zucchini and cheddar, a classic comfort food pairing.
• Beginner-Friendly: Quick bread recipes like this make baking faster and easier, perfect for home cooks of all levels.
• Sharing is Caring: Always a hit at gatherings, you’ll want to make extra to share with friends and family.

Ingredients for Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Vegetables

• 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini, thoroughly drained
• 2 green onions, finely chopped

Cheese

• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Dry Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Wet Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 large egg

Pro Tips for Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To ensure a light texture, make sure to thoroughly drain the shredded zucchini and press out any excess liquid before adding it to the batter. This will prevent the bread from becoming too dense.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, colby, or pepper jack to vary the flavors and melting qualities of the bread. This can give your quick bread a fun twist and cater to different taste preferences.

Pro Tip 3: For easy meal prep, let the bread cool completely, slice it, and layer with parchment in a freezer bag. You can freeze the slices for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the toaster or at room temperature for a fresh-baked taste.

How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan and Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Grate and Drain Zucchini

Grate the zucchini and wrap in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture until dry.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl, and whisk until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a different bowl, whisk together whole milk and vinegar. Add melted butter and egg, and whisk until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Vegetables and Cheese

Carefully mix the drained zucchini, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Step 7: Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the loaf pan, level the top, and bake for 50-60 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Cool the loaf in the pan for approximately 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool thoroughly before slicing.

Storage Tips

Once the savory zucchini cheddar quick bread has been baked and cooled, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. You can store slices of the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the bread for up to five days. To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, avoid wrapping the bread in plastic. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices by separating them with parchment paper in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen slices, simply thaw them in the toaster or at room temperature for a freshly baked taste.

To add variety to the flavor of the bread, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, colby, or pepper jack. Additionally, you can customize the bread by incorporating alternative ingredients like yellow squash instead of zucchini, various herbs like dill or parsley, or spices like smoked paprika. These additions can provide unique twists to the traditional recipe and cater to different flavor preferences. Whether serving the bread alongside soups, salads, or as part of a brunch spread, the savory zucchini cheddar quick bread is a versatile and delicious option that can be enjoyed in various ways to suit different occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re missing green onions, feel free to substitute with chopped chives or finely diced shallots for a similar flavor profile. Additionally, experiment with different cheeses like gruyere or pepper jack to give the bread a unique twist while still maintaining its delicious taste and texture.

For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour in the recipe. This substitution will provide a nuttier taste to the bread, although it may result in a slightly denser loaf. Feel free to add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a spring variation, or a pinch of smoked paprika in the fall for a warm, smoky note. These substitutions can help you customize the bread to suit different seasons and preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this zucchini cheddar quick bread warm with a generous spread of butter for a comforting and quick breakfast option. For a savory afternoon snack, toast the bread and layer it with fresh tomato slices for a burst of flavor. To create a filling and satisfying meal, pair this bread with your favorite soups or salads, elevating the entire dining experience.

For a fun twist, try using different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, colby, or pepper jack to explore unique flavor combinations. Additionally, enhance the loaf with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to add layers of freshness. To preserve this delightful bread, slice and freeze individual portions for busy mornings, ensuring you always have a homemade treat on hand.

FAQs for Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can try Monterey Jack, colby, or pepper jack for different flavors and melting qualities.

Can I freeze this bread for later consumption?

Absolutely. Let the bread cool fully, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

What are some recommended serving suggestions for this zucchini cheddar quick bread?

It pairs well with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed topped with a pat of butter for a warming snack or meal addition.

Can I add different herbs or spices to customize the flavor of this bread?

Yes! Fresh dill, parsley, chives, or a pinch of garlic powder can add delicious dimension to the loaf.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this zucchini cheddar quick bread recipe is a true winner in my kitchen and I hope it becomes a staple in yours too. The simplicity of this savory loaf paired with the heartwarming flavors of sharp cheddar and fresh zucchini make it a versatile and delicious treat for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, as a side to your favorite soup, or as a snack on the go, this bread is sure to bring a smile to your face.

So go ahead, give this zucchini cheddar quick bread a try and let its cheesy goodness and moist crumb delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to share the love by passing along the recipe to friends and family who are sure to appreciate this easy-to-make yet impressive bread. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked zucchini cheddar quick bread!