Description
This Cheddar Zucchini Vegetable Bread is a moist, cheesy, and flavorful bread packed with fresh vegetables. It perfectly balances the subtle sweetness of grated zucchini with sharp cheddar cheese to create a comforting, versatile bread ideal for any time of day. Easy to make and adaptable with various add-ins, it offers a wholesome, savory snack or meal option that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (well-drained)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional: ½ cup chopped bell peppers or grated carrots
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, or basil)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate fresh zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to prevent sogginess in the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices you are using to ensure even distribution.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the oil and milk (or buttermilk). Whisk together until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bread tender. Then fold in the grated zucchini and shredded cheddar cheese evenly.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess at the bottom and improves slicing.
Notes
- Drain zucchini well to avoid excess moisture ruining the bread’s texture.
- Do not over-mix batter; mix just until ingredients are combined for a light crumb.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor contrast over mild varieties.
- Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes since oven temperatures vary.
- Let bread cool completely before slicing to reduce crumbling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg