If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful quick bread that celebrates summer’s bounty while delivering cheesy comfort in every bite, this Zucchini Cheese Bread is about to become your new favorite. With a golden crust, moist crumb, and the irresistible pairing of sharp cheddar and tender zucchini, it’s as perfect for breakfast as it is for an afternoon snack or a side with supper. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to win over even those who claim they “don’t like zucchini.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy to whip up this Zucchini Cheese Bread—just a handful of kitchen staples and a couple of garden-fresh additions. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding fluffiness, boosting flavor, or creating that signature cheesy melt.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the bread’s structure and keeps it tender with just the right crumb.
- Baking powder: Gives your loaf a lovely lift, ensuring it rises beautifully and stays light.
- Baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk or yogurt for extra rise and fluffiness.
- Salt: Enhances every flavor and keeps the bread from tasting flat.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
- Dried oregano: Brings a hint of herby warmth that makes each bite more interesting.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness to the final loaf.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering the flavors.
- Buttermilk or plain yogurt: Lends a gentle tang and helps create a soft, plush crumb.
- Shredded zucchini (squeezed dry): The star ingredient! Adds moisture, nutrition, and a hint of sweetness without making the bread soggy.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of gooey, tangy richness throughout the bread.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty bite to balance the cheddar and zucchini.
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional): For a pop of fresh color and a gentle oniony kick.
How to Make Zucchini Cheese Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a little oil or butter, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This simple step ensures your Zucchini Cheese Bread comes out of the pan cleanly, every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Whisking not only combines everything evenly, but it also helps lighten the flour for a more tender loaf.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, and buttermilk (or plain yogurt) until fully combined and smooth. This blend will bring moisture and richness to your bread, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir them together gently. Mix just until you don’t see any streaks of flour—overmixing can make the bread tough, so a few lumps are perfectly fine here.
Step 5: Fold in Zucchini, Cheese, and Chives
Now for the fun part: Fold in the shredded zucchini (make sure you’ve squeezed out as much moisture as possible), the cheddar, Parmesan, and chives or green onions if you’re using them. This is where all the flavors come together and the bread gets its trademark texture and taste.
Step 6: Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently transferring it to a wire rack. This brief rest helps it finish setting and makes it easier to slice. Once cool, cut into thick slices and enjoy the irresistible aroma and flavor of homemade Zucchini Cheese Bread.
How to Serve Zucchini Cheese Bread
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated cheddar or Parmesan over the warm loaf makes the flavors pop and looks stunning. You can also scatter some fresh chives or green onions on top for a touch of color and freshness that highlights the savory notes within.
Side Dishes
Zucchini Cheese Bread is a versatile companion for everything from hearty soups and salads to your favorite egg dishes at brunch. Try it with a bowl of tomato soup, a crisp green salad, or even alongside scrambled eggs for a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bread and toast it lightly, then top with a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese and a sprinkle of herbs. Or cut into cubes and serve as part of a savory bread basket at gatherings—your guests will love the cheesy surprise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Zucchini Cheese Bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and moist at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first for easy grab-and-go portions, then wrap tightly and store in a freezer bag. It keeps well for up to two months—just thaw on the counter when you’re ready for more.
Reheating
To enjoy Zucchini Cheese Bread at its best, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about five to seven minutes. This brings back that just-baked flavor and makes the cheese delightfully melty again.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar brings classic flavor, you can swap in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack for a fun twist. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best texture.
Do I really need to squeeze the zucchini?
Yes, squeezing out the excess moisture is key for perfect Zucchini Cheese Bread. If the zucchini is too wet, the bread can turn out dense or gummy. A kitchen towel or sturdy paper towels work best to get it nice and dry.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just keep an eye on the texture, as some gluten-free blends absorb more moisture and may require a splash of extra buttermilk.
What’s the best way to shred zucchini?
A box grater is quick and easy for shredding zucchini. You don’t need to peel it—just trim the ends and grate away. If the shreds are long, give them a quick chop so they blend seamlessly into the batter.
Can I add other vegetables or herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh basil for even more color and flavor. Zucchini Cheese Bread is wonderfully adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking and sharing a loaf of Zucchini Cheese Bread—it’s homey, inviting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just treating yourself, this savory loaf is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and let its cheesy, tender magic win you over!
