Zucchini Cheese Bread

Name: Zucchini Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484814H55M39S
Total time: PT-484814H55M39S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter; 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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Looking for a delicious way to enjoy zucchini? This Zucchini Cheese Bread recipe is a perfect blend of savory flavors and moist texture that will delight your taste buds. Packed with grated zucchini and a mix of cheeses, this bread is a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing on taste.

Ingredients:

2 cups grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 large eggs

1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter

1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

1/4 cup milk

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)

Instructions:

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Zucchini and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.

Prepare Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add vegetable oil or melted butter, sour cream or yogurt, and milk. Mix until smooth.

Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Zucchini Mixture: Gently fold in the zucchini and cheese mixture, and add chopped parsley or basil if desired, until evenly distributed.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving Tips:

Fresh and Warm: Zucchini Cheese Bread tastes best when served fresh and warm. Allow it to cool slightly after baking, then slice and serve with a spread of butter or cream cheese.

Pairing Ideas: Enjoy a slice alongside a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or a hearty vegetable soup. It also pairs well with salads or as a side dish to grilled meats.

Brunch Favorite: Serve this bread as part of a brunch spread with other savory and sweet dishes. It complements eggs, fruit, and breakfast meats.

Toast It: For an extra crunch and flavor, lightly toast slices of the bread and serve with your favorite toppings like avocado or a poached egg.

Storage Tips:

Cool Completely: Ensure the bread is completely cooled to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation which can make the bread soggy.

Wrap Well: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Refrigeration: Store wrapped bread in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Allow it to come to room temperature or gently warm in the oven before serving to restore its freshness.

Freezing: Zucchini Cheese Bread freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover bread, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This helps crisp up the exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Related Recipes:

Carrot Zucchini Cake

FAQs:

Can I use frozen grated zucchini for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen grated zucchini, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the batter. This helps maintain the texture and consistency of the bread.

Can I substitute the sour cream or yogurt with something else?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute sour cream or plain Greek yogurt with an equal amount of buttermilk or even milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. This substitution helps keep the bread moist and adds a slight tanginess.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Zucchini Cheese Bread by adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans, sunflower seeds, or even dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor. Fold them in gently with the zucchini and cheese mixture before baking.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness. The top should also be golden brown and slightly cracked.

Conclusion:

Zucchini Cheese Bread is not only a flavorful treat but also a versatile addition to any meal. Whether served warm with butter or as a side to your favorite soup or salad, this bread offers a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and the subtle freshness of zucchini. It’s perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or as a savory snack any time of day.

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