If you’re searching for a no-fuss recipe that magically transforms everyday ingredients into pure comfort, look no further than this Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread. With bursts of sharp cheddar and juicy flecks of zucchini baked into every soft, golden slice, it’s the kind of bread you’ll crave morning, noon, and night. Perfect for sharing, snacking, or turning into a show-stealing brunch centerpiece, this quick bread promises easy prep, big flavor, and plenty of smiles all around.

Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread so irresistible is its handful of honest, pantry staples that sing together in every bite. Each ingredient plays a starring role in building lush texture, delicious flavor, and that signature moist crumb.

Zucchini: Adds moisture and subtle sweetness – don’t forget to squeeze out the extra water!
All-purpose flour: The classic foundation for structure, ensuring a tender yet satisfying bite.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Brings creamy tang and deep savory flavor – sharp cheddar is key for big flavor.
Baking powder: Gives the bread its lovely lift and lightness without yeast or extra fuss.
Eggs: Help bind everything together for a beautifully set, not-too-dense crumb.
Whole milk (or almond/oat milk): Provides the perfect touch of richness; your favorite milk will work.
Olive oil: Infuses a fruity, moist tenderness and keeps the loaf wonderfully soft, even after cooling.
Salt: Draws out every bit of flavor, balancing the cheese, zucchini, and bread itself.

How to Make Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so everything bakes up nice and evenly. Give your loaf pan a quick layer of grease, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal – your future self will thank you when it’s time to slice.

Step 2: Grate and Prep the Zucchini

Grab two medium zucchinis and grate them on the large holes of a box grater. This is when things get a little messy but embrace it! Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or a few sturdy paper towels, and twist tight to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step keeps your Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread from getting soggy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution so every bit of bread has great rise and flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in your milk of choice and the olive oil. Stir until everything is smooth – it’ll smell inviting already!

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the wet ingredients to your dry mixture, tossing in the grated zucchini and sharp cheddar cheese as you go. Gently fold with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The trick here is to avoid over-mixing; you want a cohesive batter peppered with green and gold, not a tough loaf.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Scrape your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with tantalizing cheesy aromas! The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before lifting out and slicing into your masterpiece.

How to Serve Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Garnishes

Finish off each warm slice with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or even a dusting of extra shredded cheddar for a slightly melty, oozy topping. A touch of cracked black pepper adds a lovely finishing note.

Side Dishes

This bread makes a perfect partner for soups and salads. Try it with a bowl of tomato basil soup or serve alongside eggs and a crisp green salad for a light lunch. It’s also fantastic paired with roasted veggies for an easy dinner spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For an appetizer platter, cut your Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread into cubes or wedges and serve with a homemade dip like whipped feta or herby yogurt. It’s also delightful toasted with a smear of garlic butter or stacked as an open-faced sandwich with sliced tomato and avocado.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, wrap your bread snugly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh on the counter for up to two days, or in the fridge for about four days – if it lasts that long!

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the bread and lay the pieces flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag or container. This way, you can thaw as many slices as you need; just bring to room temperature or warm gently in the oven before enjoying.

Reheating

Revive leftover slices by reheating briefly in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F until just warmed. This crisps the edges slightly and melts the cheese for almost-fresh-from-the-oven enjoyment. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese in this bread?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar packs the biggest flavor punch in Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread, feel free to experiment with smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even a blend. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

There’s no need to peel the zucchini – the skin is tender and adds a pretty pop of color in the finished loaf. Just wash well and grate as is for convenience and extra nutrition.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

You can swap in a trusted cup-for-cup all-purpose gluten-free flour blend with good results. The bread may be a touch more crumbly, but it will still be flavorful and satisfying.

What if my batter seems too thick or too runny?

If your batter looks very thick, it might need a splash more milk. If it’s looking runny, double-check that you squeezed out enough zucchini liquid – excess moisture can affect the bake. The batter should be thick but scoopable.

How can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?

Divide the batter between greased muffin tins or mini loaf pans, filling about two-thirds full. Bake at 350°F, but start checking doneness around 20-25 minutes for muffins or mini loaves; insert a toothpick to be sure.

Final Thoughts

Baking a loaf of Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is a simple pleasure with delicious results – and I promise, every slice will bring warmth to your table. So grab those zucchinis and get grating; you’re just a few easy steps away from your new favorite quick bread!

Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 22 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is a delightful blend of fresh zucchinis, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings, baked to perfection. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delicious snack on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini:

2 medium zucchinis (grated)

Flour Mixture:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
1/4 cup olive oil

Additional:

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan.
Prepare zucchinis: Grate zucchinis and remove excess moisture.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine wet ingredients: Beat eggs, then add milk and olive oil; mix well.
Combine ingredients: Mix wet ingredients with dry ingredients, and add zucchini and cheddar cheese; stir until just combined.
Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 55-65 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
This bread freezes well for future use.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 220
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread, Zucchini Bread Recipe, Cheddar Cheese Bread