Delicious Zucchini Cheese Bread Recipe to Try Today

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked Zucchini Cheese Bread wafting through your kitchen. This best Zucchini Cheese Bread recipe combines garden-fresh zucchini with savory cheese for a moist, flavorful quick bread that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use summer zucchini or simply craving homemade comfort food, this easy Zucchini Cheese Bread delivers perfect results every time. The classic combination of zucchini and cheese creates a tender loaf with just the right balance of flavors – not too sweet like traditional zucchini bread, but wonderfully savory with a golden, cheese-crusted top. Even better, this homemade Zucchini Cheese Bread requires minimal effort but yields spectacular results that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Cheese Bread

• Perfect for zucchini season – the best way to make Zucchini Cheese Bread at home when your garden is overflowing
• Incredibly versatile – enjoy it for breakfast, as a side with soup, or as a snack
• Great for beginners – easy Zucchini Cheese Bread recipe with simple ingredients and clear instructions
• Ready in just 60 minutes – most of it hands-off baking time!
• Freezer-friendly – make now, enjoy later
• Customizable – works with different cheese varieties and add-ins
• Sneaks in vegetables – perfect for picky eaters
• Great for meal prep – stays fresh for days
• No special equipment needed – just basic kitchen tools
• Crowd-pleaser – even non-zucchini fans will be converted!

Ingredients for Zucchini Cheese Bread

For this best Zucchini Cheese Bread recipe, gather these simple ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ⅓ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• ¾ cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium), excess moisture squeezed out
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup chopped green onions or chives

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, thyme, or oregano)
• ¼ cup diced olives

How to Make Zucchini Cheese Bread – Step by Step

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare your equipment
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, then line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the zucchini
Wash and trim the ends off your zucchini. Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the zucchini. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This crucial step prevents your bread from becoming soggy.

Making the Batter

Step 3: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the wet ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the olive oil and buttermilk and whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until just combined. The batter will be thick, and a few small lumps are okay. Be careful not to overmix, which can make your bread tough.

Step 6: Add the star ingredients
Fold in the grated zucchini, 1 cup of the shredded cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping), all of the Parmesan cheese, and green onions. If using any optional add-ins, fold those in now as well.

Baking the Bread

Step 7: Transfer to loaf pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 9: Cool properly
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bread out of the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Zucchini Cheese Bread

Getting Perfect Results Every Time

• Thoroughly drain the zucchini: The secret to perfect zucchini cheese bread texture is removing excess moisture from your grated zucchini. Don’t skip this step!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure a tender crumb.

• Room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and dairy to come to room temperature before mixing for better incorporation.

• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grating your own delivers superior flavor and texture.

• Check doneness carefully: Inserting a toothpick in the center is the most reliable test – it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.

Flavor Variations

• Mediterranean Zucchini Cheese Bread: Add ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup chopped olives, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano.

• Spicy Southwest Version: Include ¼ cup diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and add ½ teaspoon cumin to the dry ingredients.

• Italian-Style: Use mozzarella and provolone cheese blend, add ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, and increase the Italian herbs to 1 tablespoon.

• Herb Garden: Add ⅓ cup total of mixed fresh herbs like basil, parsley, chives, and dill for a garden-fresh flavor.

Common Questions Solved

Can I make Zucchini Cheese Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Bake it up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container.

What’s the secret to moist Zucchini Cheese Bread?
The zucchini itself provides moisture, but don’t remove ALL the water – just the excess. Also, don’t overbake, as this can dry out your bread.

Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Pour the batter into a lined muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Reduce baking time to 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Best Ways to Serve Zucchini Cheese Bread

The best way to serve Zucchini Cheese Bread is warm from the oven or lightly toasted with a small spread of butter for a flavor-enhancing touch. This versatile bread pairs wonderfully with many dishes and occasions:

• For breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a satisfying morning meal
• As an appetizer: Cut into small cubes and serve with a marinara dipping sauce
• With soups: Makes an excellent companion to tomato soup, vegetable soup, or chili
• For lunch: Use as the base for an open-face sandwich with sliced tomatoes and avocado
• Dinner side: Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or hearty stews
• Snack time: Enjoy a slice on its own as a nutritious afternoon pick-me-up

For special occasions, try making a cheese spread by combining cream cheese with herbs and spreading it on slices of the bread before broiling for a minute until bubbly and golden.

Nutritional Information for Zucchini Cheese Bread

Below is the approximate nutritional profile for one slice of Zucchini Cheese Bread (based on 12 slices per loaf):

• Calories: 235 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 48mg
• Sodium: 440mg
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugar: 2g

These values may vary based on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of cheese. For a lower-calorie version of Zucchini Cheese Bread, you can use reduced-fat cheese or decrease the cheese quantity slightly.

This recipe provides significant nutrition benefits with vegetables, protein from cheese and eggs, and can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in appropriate portions.

Storage & Leftovers

How to Store Zucchini Cheese Bread

Room Temperature Storage: Zucchini Cheese Bread can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store in an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer freshness, refrigerate your bread wrapped tightly or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. How long does Zucchini Cheese Bread last in the fridge? When properly stored, it maintains excellent quality for up to a week.

Freezing Instructions

This bread freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep:

1. Allow the bread to cool completely
2. Slice the bread (pre-slicing makes it easier to thaw individual portions)
3. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag
4. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months

Best Reheating Methods

From refrigerated:

• Microwave: 15-20 seconds per slice
• Toaster or toaster oven: 1-2 minutes until edges are crispy
• Conventional oven: Wrap in foil and heat at 350°F for 10 minutes

From frozen:

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat using any method above
• Or reheat frozen slices directly in the toaster on a low setting
• For whole frozen loaf: Thaw and then warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes

FAQs for Zucchini Cheese Bread

Can I freeze Zucchini Cheese Bread?

Yes, Zucchini Cheese Bread freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. For best results, cool completely, then slice before freezing. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. This method allows you to thaw only what you need. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen in a toaster on low setting.

Can I make this Zucchini Cheese Bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Many bakers report excellent results using brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour. Make sure all your other ingredients, including baking powder and seasonings, are certified gluten-free as well.

What can I use instead of buttermilk in Zucchini Cheese Bread?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you have several options:

1. Make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes
2. Use an equal amount of plain yogurt or sour cream
3. Combine ¼ cup milk with ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
   Each alternative will provide the necessary acidity and moisture for your bread.

Do I need to peel the zucchini for this bread?

No, there’s no need to peel the zucchini for this recipe. The skin is tender and contains beneficial nutrients and fiber. Just wash the zucchini thoroughly before grating. The green flecks from the skin also add a beautiful color to your bread, making it more visually appealing.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Congratulations! You now have the knowledge to create the best Zucchini Cheese Bread right in your own kitchen. This versatile, delicious bread is the perfect way to enjoy garden-fresh zucchini and transform it into something truly special that everyone will love. The combination of savory cheese, aromatic herbs, and nutritious zucchini makes this bread a standout recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation.

Whether you’re serving it alongside soup for dinner, enjoying it as a satisfying snack, or sharing it with friends at your next gathering, this Zucchini Cheese Bread is guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different cheese varieties and add-ins to make this recipe truly your own.

Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? Share your thoughts, questions, and photos in the comments below. And if you loved this recipe, please consider giving it a rating and sharing it with your friends and family.

Now that you know how to make the best Zucchini Cheese Bread at home, it’s time to get baking and enjoy the wonderful aromas and flavors this exceptional bread has to offer!

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