The aroma of freshly baked Cheesy Zucchini Bread wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with its warm, cheesy goodness. Imagine pulling this golden-brown loaf from the oven, its crust crackling and inviting you to take a bite. It’s a perfect blend of savory cheese and tender zucchini, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
I still remember the first time I made this delightful bread for a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and exclaimed, “This is like a hug in a loaf!” Ideal for brunches or cozy evenings, this Cheesy Zucchini Bread will have everyone asking for seconds—maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Zucchini Bread is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
- The rich cheese flavor pairs beautifully with the subtle freshness of zucchini
- Its golden crust and soft interior make it visually appealing on any table
- Enjoy it warm or toasted, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack!
When I served this dish last summer at our family reunion, everyone raved about it—my aunt even asked for the recipe so she could impress her book club friends!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Zucchini: Use medium-sized zucchinis; they provide moisture without overwhelming the bread’s texture.
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Shredded Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for that extra punch of flavor, but any melty cheese works!
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All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour helps bind everything together perfectly; feel free to substitute with whole wheat for added nutrition.
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Eggs: They act as a binding agent; fresh eggs yield the best results!
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Baking Powder: This is essential for achieving that lovely rise in your bread.
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Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
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Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a nice kick to the mix.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil to boost flavor and moisture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
Prepare Your Zucchini: Grate your zucchinis using a box grater and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. The drier they are, the better your bread will turn out!
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until combined. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents throughout the mixture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs and mix them with grated zucchini and olive oil until well combined. This step brings together all those delightful flavors.
Add Cheese & Dry Ingredients to Wet Mixture: Gradually fold in shredded cheese followed by your dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make your bread tough.
Bake Your Bread: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake in preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Once you pull this Cheesy Zucchini Bread from the oven, allow it to cool slightly before slicing. The combination of melted cheese and moist zucchini creates an irresistible treat that will earn you rave reviews from friends and family alike!
You Must Know
- This cheesy zucchini bread is not just a side dish; it’s a flavorful delight that elevates any meal
- Its golden crust and gooey cheese create an unforgettable aroma, making your kitchen the place to be
- Perfect for brunch or as a savory snack!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grating the zucchini and squeezing out excess moisture. Mix wet ingredients first, then combine with dry ingredients for a uniform batter. Bake until golden brown for the perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses for your favorites, add herbs like thyme or oregano, or toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Each variation brings a unique twist to this classic recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh zucchini for maximum flavor and moisture control
- Grate it finely to blend seamlessly into the batter
- Don’t skip the cheese; it provides a delightful richness that enhances every bite!
One time, I made this cheesy zucchini bread for a potluck, and everyone raved about it! It was gone before I could grab a second piece, leaving me to wonder if I should have doubled the recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
What cheese works best for cheesy zucchini bread?
Cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices for their flavor and meltiness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free baking mix for great results.
Cheesy Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Zucchini Bread is a delightful, savory treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of cheese and fresh zucchini. This easy-to-make loaf has a golden crust and a moist interior, making it an ideal addition to brunch or as a tasty snack. With its irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen, this bread is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the grated zucchini and olive oil until combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheese, followed by the dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Swap in your favorite cheese for different flavors like mozzarella or gouda. Add fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano for an extra burst of flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze slices for longer storage.
