This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread is a tasty treat packed with cheesy goodness and hidden veggies! It’s moist, soft, and super simple to make, perfect for beginners.
I love how this bread makes great use of zucchini—it really sneaks in some healthy greens! Plus, it’s fantastic warm with butter, or toasted for breakfast. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show! Choose firm, fresh zucchini. If you’re out, you can also use grated carrots or even summer squash as a substitute—they’ll provide similar moisture and taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for this recipe. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can be used, though the texture may change a bit.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a bold flavor! If you’re a mozzarella fan, mix half mozzarella with half cheddar for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can also be substituted for a dairy-free version.
Eggs: They help bind the ingredients together. For an eggless option, try 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Bread Is Moist?
Moisture in zucchini bread comes from the zucchini itself, but how you prepare it is crucial! Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture after grating. That way, your bread won’t be soggy. Here are some steps to keep it perfectly moist:
- Use fresh zucchini and grate it just before making the batter.
- Don’t skip squeezing the grated zucchini—this is key to avoiding too much liquid.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can make your bread dense.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean but keep in mind that a few crumbs are okay!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then it’s ready to enjoy! The total time from start to finish is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a box grater. After grating, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is important to keep your bread from getting soggy. Set the zucchini aside for now.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder (if using), black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk it all together until well blended.
4. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it) into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until the cheese is evenly distributed.
5. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the olive oil and milk, whisking until everything is well combined.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will make the bread dense.
7. Fold in the Zucchini:
Now, gently fold the grated zucchini into the batter until it’s evenly distributed. This will give the bread moisture and flavor.
8. Pour the Batter into the Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to make it even.
9. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Cheese Bread as a snack or with your favorite meal!
Happy baking!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheese Bread
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before using it in the recipe. It’s best to squeeze out liquid with a towel to ensure your bread doesn’t become watery.
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Certainly! You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option. However, the bread may be denser, so you might want to add a little more liquid, such as milk, to keep it moist.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store any leftover zucchini cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave before serving!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins to the Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding ingredients such as chopped herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked bacon for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that too many wet ingredients may alter the bread’s texture, so adjust accordingly.
