This tasty Herb and Cheddar Squash Quick Bread brings the best of summer together! With fresh herbs, cheesy goodness, and moist squash, it’s a treat that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, this bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. I love to slather on a bit of butter while it’s still warm—so good! Plus, it’s super easy to bake, which is a win in my book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Squash: For this recipe, yellow squash or zucchini works great. If you don’t have either, consider using finely grated carrots for a different flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor boost. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cheese or switch to a creamier cheese like mozzarella.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: These ingredients add moisture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using almond or coconut yogurt instead.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs brighten the bread. If unavailable, dried herbs can work, but use less since they’re more concentrated. My favorite addition is fresh chives!
What’s the Best Way to Grate Squash Without Making a Mess?
Grating squash can get a little messy, but here are some tips to keep it easy:
- Use a box grater or a food processor; they both save time!
- Place a clean kitchen towel or bowl under the grater to catch the excess moisture or any squashed bits.
- For easier removal, cut the ends off the squash first; it’s less slippery!
This will make prep smoother, and you’ll have more fun baking your bread!
Herb and Cheddar Squash Quick Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or mixed Italian herbs)
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated squash (yellow squash or zucchini works well)
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
Optional Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious quick bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes until you can enjoy this cozy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bread easier later on.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and your choice of dried herbs. This helps ensure all the leavening agents and seasonings are evenly distributed.
3. Add Cheese and Squash:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated squash. Mix it well so that every piece of cheese and squash is coated in the flour mixture, which helps keep them from sinking to the bottom when baked.
4. Beat the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they look frothy. Add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vegetable oil or melted butter, mixing it all together until well combined. This creates a moist bread!
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. This will help it bake evenly and look nice when it comes out!
7. Bake It Up:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is done!
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 before slicing. This helps prevent it from getting soggy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
You can sprinkle fresh chopped herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your Herb and Cheddar Squash Quick Bread warm or at room temperature—perfect as a snack, breakfast, or alongside soup!
FAQ About Herb and Cheddar Squash Quick Bread
Can I Substitute a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can use any cheese you enjoy, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning if your cheese is saltier than cheddar.
How Do I Store Leftover Quick Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying it again!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Squash?
Yes, you can! Feel free to experiment with other grated vegetables like carrots or even some finely chopped bell peppers. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from vegetables like zucchini before adding them to the batter.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Bread Doesn’t Stick to the Pan?
To prevent sticking, use a generous amount of greasing and flouring on your loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper. If you’re using a non-stick pan, just greasing it should be sufficient.
