This Quick Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is a wonderful treat! It combines fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and tasty herbs, all stirred into a soft bread that’s super easy to make.
I love how this bread brings a warm, cozy smell to the kitchen. Plus, it pairs perfectly with soup or just a bit of butter. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose Flour: This is the base for the bread. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, although the texture will change a bit. I like using a blend of both for added flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, you can use Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini keeps the bread moist. If zucchini isn’t available, try using grated carrots or even cucumber. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture before adding them in!
Beer: A lager or ale is excellent for flavor. If you’re baking without alcohol, you can use sparkling water or a non-alcoholic beer instead. The bubbles help with rising!
How Do You Ensure the Best Texture in Your Beer Bread?
The key is to mix the batter gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread, so it’s important to stir until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps. When incorporating the beer, mix it lightly with a spatula to keep the air in the batter.
- Preheat your oven for consistent baking and avoid changing the temperature mid-bake.
- Squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent the bread from being too soggy.
Quick Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herb blend
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- 12 oz (1 bottle) beer (lager or ale works well)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45-55 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 10 minutes for cooling. In total, you’ll be enjoying your warm, savory bread in about 1 hour and 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, dried herbs, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). This helps ensure that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Add Cheese and Zucchini:
Now, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the grated zucchini. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. You should have a colorful mixture ready to go!
4. Incorporate the Beer:
Gradually pour in the beer. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently mix everything together until just combined. Remember, it’s important not to overmix—if there are a few lumps in the batter, that’s totally fine!
5. Fill the Loaf Pan:
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. This will help your bread bake evenly.
6. Bake the Bread:
Put the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is a lovely golden brown color.
7. Finish and Cool:
Once done, take the bread out of the oven. If desired, brush the top with melted butter for an extra tasty finish. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your savory, moist zucchini cheddar herb beer bread! It’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or even toasted for breakfast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend! Just make sure to use one that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. The bread may have a slightly different consistency but will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Beer on Hand?
No problem! You can replace the beer with an equal amount of sparkling water or a non-alcoholic beer. The carbonation will help with the rise and keep the bread light and fluffy!
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just slice it first for easier thawing and reheating later on!
Can I Add Other Ingredients Like Bacon or Nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Cooked bacon, nuts, or even chopped fresh herbs would be fantastic additions! Just be mindful not to overload the batter, as it affects the rise of the bread.
