If you’re looking for a delightful bread that combines moist texture, sharp cheddar flavor, and fresh garden goodness, this Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is your new best friend. It’s easy to whip up, packed with fresh zucchini and cheddar, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a hearty snack. The subtle tang from vinegar in the milk, the crunch of green onions, and the tender crumb make this bread utterly irresistible. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak some veggies into your day with pure deliciousness.

Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to this recipe’s magic. Each ingredient plays an important role, from creating structure to adding bursts of flavor and balancing moisture for that perfect crumb.

1 1/2 cups grated zucchini: Fresh zucchini lends moisture and a mild, slightly sweet taste without overpowering the bread.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread that provides structure and a light crumb.
2 teaspoons baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works together with baking powder to ensure perfect lift and tenderness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness from the zucchini.
1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and hydrates the dry ingredients for a moist dough.
1 tablespoon vinegar: Reacts with baking soda for extra rise and gives a subtle tang to impress.
1 egg: Acts as a binder and contributes to the bread’s richness.
3 tablespoons melted butter: Adds depth of flavor and keeps the bread tender.
1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show, providing a savory punch and gooey texture throughout.
2 green onions, chopped: Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and a lovely pop of color.

How to Make Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9 x 5 inch bread pan is crucial to make sure your savory zucchini cheddar quick bread bakes evenly and comes out easily without sticking. This step sets you up for a perfect loaf every time.

Step 2: Squeeze Out Excess Moisture from Zucchini

After grating your zucchini, wrap it in a paper towel and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and ensures the texture remains bright and fluffy. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mix of dry ingredients is your bread’s foundational base, ensuring your loaf rises properly and has just the right amount of seasoning.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, mix milk and vinegar and let them sit for a few minutes until the milk starts to curdle slightly. This creates a homemade buttermilk effect, adding tenderness and a touch of tanginess. Then stir in your melted butter and egg until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to tough bread, so keep the batter a little lumpy – that’s the secret to a tender crumb.

Step 6: Fold in Zucchini, Cheddar, and Green Onions

Finally, fold in your grated zucchini, sharp cheddar, and chopped green onions. They bring vibrant bursts of moisture, melty cheese, and fresh flavor throughout each slice of the bread. These ingredients truly make the Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread shine.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Delicious

Transfer the batter into your prepared bread pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for about one hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is absolutely heavenly!

How to Serve Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Garnishes

Serving your savory zucchini cheddar quick bread warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey balances the bold cheddar and fresh zucchini beautifully. You can also sprinkle extra chopped green onions or a light dusting of smoked paprika on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with soups like creamy tomato or chicken noodle for a comforting meal. It’s also delightful alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, adding a rich, savory counterpoint that will impress everyone at the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and toast this bread for tasty sandwiches, layering with avocado and turkey or a smear of herb cream cheese. You can even cube it for a savory bread pudding or serve as a base for bruschetta topped with tomato and basil. The flexibility will amaze you!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover savory zucchini cheddar quick bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and fresh, ready for snacking whenever you want.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge for easy enjoyment anytime.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F until warm and slightly crisp on the edges. You can also microwave a slice wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds, though the oven method preserves the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this quick bread?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar brings a classic tangy flavor, you can experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Just be mindful of moisture content, as some cheeses release more liquid during baking.

Is it necessary to squeeze out the zucchini before adding it?

Yes, removing excess moisture from the grated zucchini helps prevent the bread from becoming too wet or dense. It’s a key step to ensure a tender, crumbly texture rather than gummy or underbaked bread.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The bread might be a little denser but will still taste delicious with those savory zucchini cheddar flavors.

How long does the bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh for about 3 days. For longer life, refrigeration extends freshness up to a week but can slightly dry out the bread, so warming before slicing is recommended.

Can I add herbs or spices to the recipe?

Yes! Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley complement the zucchini and cheddar wonderfully. For a kick, sprinkle in a bit of chili powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne. These customizations keep the Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread exciting and personalized.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread, it will become your new go-to for everything from quick snacks to elegant appetizers. The combination of fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar, and tender crumb feels like a warm hug in bread form. So grab your ingredients and get baking – your taste buds will thank you!

Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Savory Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is a moist and flavorful bread perfect for a quick snack or a savory side. Packed with grated zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, it combines wholesome ingredients with a tender crumb. With simple preparation and baking in just about an hour, this bread is perfect for any skill level and can complement soups, salads, or be enjoyed on its own.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 5 inch bread pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick during baking.
Prepare Zucchini: Wrap the grated zucchini in a paper towel and squeeze lightly to remove some of the excess moisture, which helps prevent the bread batter from becoming too wet.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
Prepare Wet Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the milk and vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes until it slightly curdles, creating a buttermilk substitute. Then stir in the melted butter and egg until fully combined.
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined to avoid over-mixing which can make the bread tough.
Add Zucchini, Cheese, and Onions: Carefully fold in the grated zucchini, grated sharp cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
Bake the Bread: Transfer the batter to the prepared bread pan and bake in the preheated oven for about one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.

Notes

For best results, squeeze out as much excess moisture from the zucchini as possible to avoid a soggy bread.
You can substitute sharp cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely; this helps the bread firm up.
Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
This bread can be sliced and toasted the next day for a delicious snack or breakfast option.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Bread, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American