This herb and cheddar squash bread is a tasty treat that combines fluffy bread with the goodness of squash and the sharp flavor of cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for any meal!
Baking this bread fills my kitchen with the best smells. I love serving it warm with butter—it’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is used here for its versatility. If you’re going gluten-free, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check that it contains xanthan gum for proper texture!
Cheddar Cheese: You can choose sharp, mild, or even white cheddar based on your taste. If you want a different flavor, try using Gruyère or pepper jack for a kick!
Squash: Butternut squash has a sweet, nutty vibe, while zucchini is lighter. If you’re in a pinch, canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) can also work well—just be sure to reduce the liquid in the recipe.
Milk: For dairy-free options, almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk are all great substitutes. Buttermilk adds a nice tang, which improves the flavor as well!
How Do I Ensure My Bread is Light and Fluffy?
Mixing the wet and dry ingredients together is crucial but take care! Overmixing can make the bread dense. Here’s how to get that light texture:
- Mix until you see no dry flour. A few lumps are fine!
- Avoid beating the batter too hard; a gentle fold is best.
- If your squash mixture is very wet, you may need to balance it with a touch more flour.
Following these tips will help your herb and cheddar squash bread rise beautifully and stay tender. Enjoy baking! 😊
How to Make Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs (such as thyme, oregano, and rosemary)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked and mashed squash (such as butternut or zucchini, well drained if watery)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk)
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for slight sweetness)
Cheese:
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, according to preference)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time to make this herb and cheddar squash bread is about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for preparation and around 45-55 minutes for baking. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing, and voilà—it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper if you prefer. This helps the bread come out easily once it’s baked.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried mixed herbs. This ensures a nice blend of flavors throughout the bread!
3. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed in the dry mixture. This will give a cheesy burst in every bite!
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly. Add in the olive oil or melted butter, milk (or buttermilk), and the mashed squash. If you’re using honey or sugar, mix that in too.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense. A few lumps are totally okay!
6. Bake the Bread:
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
7. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the bread and serve it warm as a delightful savory snack or alongside your favorite soups and salads. Enjoy the flavorful combination of herbs, cheese, and squash!
Happy baking! 😊
FAQ for Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is a popular choice, zucchini works well too. Just make sure it’s cooked and thoroughly drained if it has a lot of moisture. You can even use canned pumpkin puree—just reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly!
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 it to last longer, you can freeze it. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw and warm in the toaster or oven when ready to eat!
Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring to the oven. This helps with even baking.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Bread?
This herb and cheddar squash bread is delicious on its own or paired with butter. It also goes wonderfully with soups, stews, or as a sandwich base. For added flavor, consider toasting the slices before serving!
