This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a yummy treat that combines fresh zucchini with gooey cheese for a soft, moist texture. It’s perfect for breakfast or a snack!
I love how simple it is to whip up—just mix, pour, and bake! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some veggies in. You might find yourself going for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect here. They add moisture and a subtle flavor. If you’re out of zucchini, you can substitute with grated carrots or even shredded yellow squash for a different twist!
Cheese: Cheddar is a great choice, but feel free to mix it up! Try mozzarella for a milder taste, or even feta for a tangy kick. No cheese lover? You can omit it entirely or use a dairy-free alternative if needed!
Greek Yogurt: It helps keep the bread moist. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular yogurt or sour cream works well. You can use applesauce or mashed bananas for a different flavor while keeping it moist.
Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh herbs brighten up the bread. If you don’t have oregano or Italian seasoning, try using basil or parsley for a fresh taste! You can also skip herbs if you prefer a plain flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Bread Stays Moist?
Getting that perfect moist texture is key with zucchini bread. Here are my tips:
- Remove Excess Water: Grate the zucchini and squeeze it well in a towel. This reduces excess moisture that can make the bread too wet.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until everything is mixed. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Use Fat Wisely: Incorporating the right amount of oil or melted butter adds moisture. Make sure not to skip this step!
- Check Baking Time: Every oven varies. Check for doneness with a toothpick earlier if you notice it’s browning quickly. Remove from the oven to avoid drying out.
Following these tips should give you a wonderfully moist zucchini cheese bread every time! Enjoy baking!
Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread with Moist Texture
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or fresh herbs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 50-60 minutes to bake, for a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. After baking, give it a little cooling time before slicing up the deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easier removal later on.
2. Grate the Zucchinis:
Using a grater, grate the zucchinis and transfer them to a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can (this helps prevent the bread from being too soggy). Once drained, set them aside.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground black pepper, and oregano or Italian seasoning if you’re using it. This will be your dry mixture.
4. Beat the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, crack in the eggs and beat them well. Then add in the olive oil (or melted butter) and Greek yogurt (or sour cream). Mix these ingredients until everything is smooth and well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, and gently stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
6. Add Zucchini and Cheese:
Fold in the grated zucchini, shredded cheese, minced garlic (if using), and chopped green onions or herbs (if using). Mix until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the Batter into the Pan:
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top so it’s even.
8. Bake the Bread:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re all set!
9. Cool and Slice:
Once out of the oven, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This will help maintain that moist texture!
10. Enjoy!
Slice your delicious zucchini cheese bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It’s amazing on its own, as a snack, or paired with soups and salads! Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Yellow Squash Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash works as a great substitute for zucchini. Just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture, just as you would with zucchini, to maintain the bread’s texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Most of these blends contain xanthan gum, which helps with the bread’s structure. Always check the packaging for best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly before freezing!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Bread?
Of course! You can add extras like chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), sun-dried tomatoes, or even bacon bits for a savory twist. Just keep in mind that too many add-ins may alter the bread’s texture, so use in moderation!
