This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a tasty treat that combines fresh zucchini with gooey cheese for a wonderful blend of flavors. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack!
Trust me, each slice is moist and bursting with cheesy goodness! I love to slather mine with a bit of butter. It’s hard to eat just one slice, so be prepared to share…or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is crucial for moisture and flavor in this bread. If zucchini is not available, you might try shredded carrots, but keep in mind they will change the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a robust flavor. However, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella for a milder taste, or use a combination like feta and spinach for a different twist!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add moisture and richness. If you’re looking for lower fat options, use plain almond yogurt or applesauce. Just note that these could impact the bread’s flavor a bit.
Herbs and Spices: The garlic powder and oregano really kick things up a notch! If you’re out of oregano, Italian seasoning works great. Experiment with your favorite herbs for personal flair!
How Do You Keep Zucchini Bread Moist?
Getting that perfect moist texture with zucchini bread hinges on two main steps: squeezing out excess moisture and not overmixing. Here’s how:
- First, grate the zucchini and wring it out in a towel to get rid of extra water. This prevents your bread from becoming soggy.
- While mixing, combine wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated. Overmixing will lead to tough bread, so gentle folding is key!
- Finally, always let it cool completely on a wire rack to avoid steam making the bread wet.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy deliciously moist zucchini cheese bread every time!
Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesy flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 50-60 minutes of baking. After baking, allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then let it cool completely on a wire rack. Overall, plan for about 1.5 hours for everything from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important for even baking! Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the bread later.
2. Grate and Drain the Zucchini:
Using a box grater, grate your zucchinis. Once you’ve done that, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any extra moisture. This step is super important to keep your bread from being soggy, so take your time here and set it aside.
3. Mix Your Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if using), and oregano. These will give your bread great flavor and help it rise perfectly!
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the olive oil and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and mix everything together well. Make sure it’s all combined nicely.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Fold in the grated zucchini and the shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, add in the Parmesan cheese, too!
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to even it out. This will ensure your bread rises beautifully.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! Do the toothpick test by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
8. Cool It Down:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key!
9. Slice and Serve:
Once cooled, slice the bread into wonderful pieces and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s absolutely delicious as is, or with a little butter spread on top!
Enjoy your moist and cheesy zucchini bread—it’s a perfect snack or side for any meal!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini?
Yes! If using frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the batter. This will help maintain the bread’s texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
How Can I Make This Bread Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Make sure the mix contains xanthan gum, which helps provide structure and moisture to your bread.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even a handful of spinach or other veggies for added nutrition. Just be cautious with the moisture content—extra ingredients can affect the texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven!
