Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe

Irresistible Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe

My culinary adventure with this zucchini cheddar quick bread surprised me completely.

Fresh vegetables tucked into a golden-crusted loaf create unexpected magic.

Cheese melts through dense, moist crumbs with delightful sharpness.

Weekend baking projects rarely feel this satisfying or simple.

Unexpected ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a slice packed with flavor and comfort.

Home kitchens become laboratories of delicious experimentation when you play with classic recipes like this.

Each bite promises a burst of savory goodness that will make you smile.

Jump into making this quick bread and watch magic happen on your plate.

Quick Bread FAQs for Everyday Bakers

  • Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind this might make the bread slightly denser and change the texture.

  • How do I prevent my zucchini bread from being too moist?

Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean towel. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy bread and ensure a perfect texture.

  • Is it necessary to use green onions?

No, green onions are optional. You can skip them or replace them with chives or finely chopped regular onions if you prefer. The bread will still taste delicious.

  • Can I freeze this zucchini cheddar bread?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread for Quick Meals

  • Serve as a standalone snack, breakfast side, or accompaniment to soups and salads, making it an incredibly adaptable recipe for multiple dining scenarios.
  • Incorporate nutritious zucchini into a cheesy, savory bread that even picky eaters will enjoy, transforming vegetables into an irresistible treat without sacrificing taste.
  • Utilize simple, affordable ingredients like zucchini, cheese, and pantry staples to create a filling and satisfying bread that doesn't break the bank.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Flour Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and foundation for the quick bread, giving it a soft and tender crumb.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise and creates a light texture.
  • Baking Soda: Assists with browning and provides additional leavening.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Moisture Ingredients:
  • Milk, Vinegar: Creates a homemade buttermilk substitute for tangy flavor and tender texture.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness to the bread.
  • Melted Butter: Contributes moisture and provides a rich, smooth taste.
Flavor and Texture Boosters:
  • Zucchini: Adds moisture, subtle vegetable flavor, and nutritional value. Choose fresh, firm zucchini and squeeze out excess water.
  • Cheddar Cheese, Green Onions: Provide savory depth and sharp, oniony notes. Sharp cheddar works best for intense flavor.

How to Mix and Bake Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn your oven to 350F (175C). Grab a loaf pan and give it a quick spray with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Tame the Zucchini

Grate the zucchini and squeeze out the extra water using a clean kitchen towel. This trick keeps your bread from turning into a soggy mess.

Step 3: Mix Dry Powerhouses

Grab a big mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Step 4: Craft Liquid Magic

In another bowl, combine:
  • Milk
  • Vinegar
Let this sit for 5 minutes to create a tangy buttermilk effect. Then add:
  • Melted butter
  • Egg

Whisk until everything looks smooth and friendly.

Step 5: Unite Wet and Dry

Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently – think of folding a delicate blanket. Stop mixing as soon as everything looks combined.

Step 6: Add Flavor Boosters

Fold in these flavor champions:
  • Grated zucchini
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped green onions

Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pan Placement

Slide the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even surface.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the oven. Bake for about 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cooling Countdown

Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into this cheesy, veggie-packed delight.

Tips That Keep Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Moist

  • Squeeze Out Moisture: Remove excess water from grated zucchini by wrapping in a clean towel and pressing gently to prevent soggy, dense bread texture.
  • Customize Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or parmesan to create unique flavor profiles and enhance the bread's richness.
  • Prevent Overmixing: Stir batter gently and briefly until ingredients are just combined to maintain a tender, light bread structure and avoid developing tough gluten strands.
  • Boost Nutritional Value: Add chopped nuts, seeds, or herbs like dill or chives to increase protein content and introduce additional layers of flavor and texture.
  • Store Smartly: Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months to preserve freshness.

Store Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread for Lasting Flavor

  • Store cooled bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Slice the bread, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This method preserves texture and flavor perfectly.
  • Warm slices on a baking sheet at 350F for 5-7 minutes, which helps restore the bread's original crispy edges and soft interior.
  • Quickly heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds, adding a small piece of damp paper towel to prevent moisture loss and maintain softness.

Foods That Match Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Easily

  • Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the bread's richness and complement its cheesy, herbal notes.
  • Create a light mixed greens salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the bread's dense texture and provide refreshing contrast.
  • Prepare a simple roasted chicken seasoned with thyme and rosemary that echoes the green onion flavors in the bread, creating a harmonious main course pairing.
  • Add a selection of cured meats like prosciutto or salami that will highlight the bread's savory cheddar profile and provide a delightful textural experience.

Creative Spins on Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipes

  • Gluten-Free Zucchini Cheddar Bread: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same texture and flavor for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Zucchini Cheese Loaf: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and substitute cheddar with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
  • Low-Carb Zucchini Cheese Bread: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of wheat flour, and reduce the amount of onions to minimize carbohydrate content for keto dieters.
  • Herb-Infused Savory Bread: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to enhance the bread's flavor profile and create a more complex taste experience.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe

Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Savory zucchini cheddar quick bread delivers a delightful blend of garden-fresh vegetables and sharp cheese in one irresistible loaf. Hearty slices promise comfort with each bite, perfect for sharing at breakfast, brunch, or alongside afternoon tea.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Dairy and Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk (2% recommended, but whole or non-fat works too)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)

Seasonings and Leavening Agents:

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Warm the cooking chamber to 350F (175C), creating an ideal baking environment for the zucchini bread. Protect the baking vessel by coating with butter or layering with parchment paper.
  2. Liberate excess liquid from shredded zucchini by gently compressing between clean towels, preventing moisture from compromising the bread’s delicate texture.
  3. Synthesize dry components – flour, leavening agents, and seasoning – through vigorous whisking in a spacious mixing vessel, ensuring uniform distribution.
  4. Craft a tangy dairy substitute by merging milk and vinegar, allowing brief chemical interaction. Integrate melted butter and egg into this mixture, creating a smooth, cohesive liquid base.
  5. Delicately marry wet and dry mixtures, employing gentle stirring techniques to maintain aeration and prevent gluten development.
  6. Introduce textural elements by carefully folding zucchini, sharp cheddar, and verdant green onions throughout the developing batter, distributing ingredients evenly.
  7. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface to establish an aesthetically pleasing and uniform profile.
  8. Position the pan centrally in the heated oven, allowing approximately 60 minutes of transformative baking. Monitor doneness by inserting a slender probe, which should emerge pristine when the bread reaches optimal completion.
  9. Implement a controlled cooling strategy: rest briefly in the pan, then transition to a wire rack, permitting complete temperature equilibration before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Squeeze zucchini thoroughly to prevent soggy bread, removing as much moisture as possible for a perfectly textured quick bread.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp white cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles that complement the zucchini.
  • Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the savory notes and create a more complex taste experience.
  • Make the bread gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the same delightful texture and taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 500 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star