This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Beer Bread is a tasty treat! It’s full of fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of herbs for added flavor. Plus, beer makes it extra fluffy!
I love how simple this bread is to whip up, and the smell while it bakes? Heavenly! I always keep a loaf handy for snacks or with soup. You can’t beat warm, cheesy bread! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your bread. You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free all-purpose flour if you’re avoiding gluten.
Beer: Any lager or ale works well, but you can substitute with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic beer if preferred. This keeps the bread light and fluffy!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is best, but you can swap it with yellow squash for similar results. Just make sure to squeeze out extra moisture before adding it to the batter.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try a mild cheese or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version!
How Do You Get the Perfect Bread Texture?
The key to a great texture is to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps! This keeps the bread light and fluffy.
- Combine dry ingredients first to ensure even distribution.
- Add the wet ingredients quickly and mix until just combined.
- Let the batter rest for a few minutes before baking; it helps with rising and texture.
Baking it at 350°F ensures it cooks evenly, avoiding a dry crust and keeping the inside moist. Keep an eye on it for that golden brown top!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Beer Bread with Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 12 oz (1 bottle or can) beer (lager or ale works well)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini cheddar beer bread takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 50-60 minutes for baking, making it a quick and satisfying recipe. Allow for some cooling time afterward, and you’ll be enjoying this fluffy, cheesy bread in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and comes out just right. While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and dried herbs. Give them a good stir to mix well. This will help distribute the leavening agents and herbs evenly throughout the bread.
3. Add the Cheddar and Zucchini:
Next, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the grated zucchini. Make sure the zucchini is squeezed to remove any excess moisture to keep the bread from getting soggy. Mix gently so everything is coated in flour but don’t worry too much about lumps!
4. Mix in the Beer:
Pour in the beer and stir just until combined. The batter will be thick but should not be overmixed. A few lumps are okay! This step is essential as the beer adds flavor and helps the bread rise.
5. Combine and Bake:
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. If you’d like a golden crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy your freshly baked zucchini cheddar beer bread warm or at room temperature, perfect as a snack or as a side with your favorite soups and salads!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheddar Beer Bread with Herbs
Can I Substitute the Beer?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with sparkling water or non-alcoholic beer. This will still give you a light and fluffy texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Recipe with Whole Wheat Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour! However, you may want to add a little extra liquid (like 1-2 tablespoons of water or more beer) as whole wheat flour tends to absorb more moisture, resulting in a denser bread.
What Can I Serve with This Bread?
This cheesy, herb-infused bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a stand-alone snack. Try it with a bowl of tomato soup or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal!
