This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Beer Bread is a tasty twist on classic bread! It mixes fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar, and your favorite beer for a fun flavor. Add in herbs for an extra zesty touch!
Making this bread is super simple! Just mix everything in a bowl, pop it in the oven, and soon you’ll have a warm, cheesy loaf that makes any meal special. I can’t resist having a slice with butter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the bread. If you want a whole grain option, whole wheat flour works too, but it may make the bread a bit denser.
Beer: Any lager or ale works well here. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling water or club soda instead to keep it light and airy.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture without overpowering the bread. If you have yellow squash or carrots on hand, they can be used in place of zucchini.
Cheddar cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some spice!
How Do I Make Sure My Beer Bread is Light and Fluffy?
To achieve a light, fluffy bread, avoid overmixing your batter once you add the beer. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are okay. This keeps the bread from getting tough.
- Ensure your beer is at room temperature to help activate the baking powder and create the right texture.
- Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial. Use a clean towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding it to your batter.
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 garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 (12 oz) bottle of beer (lager or ale works well), at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Zucchini Cheddar Beer Bread takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Total time from start to finish is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, but the wait is worth it for that warm, cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), and black pepper. This helps to make sure everything is evenly distributed and ready for the wet ingredients.
3. Add Zucchini and Cheese:
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated zucchini into the dry mixture. Mix until everything is well coated and evenly distributed. The zucchini and cheese will add wonderful flavors and moisture to your bread.
4. Combine with Beer:
Now, slowly pour in the beer, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This keeps your bread fluffy and soft!
5. Pour and Brush:
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you want a nice golden crust, brush the top with melted butter.
6. Bake:
Slide the loaf pan into the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean when it’s ready.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy this easy, flavorful zucchini cheddar beer bread as a delightful snack or a delicious side for soups and salads!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheddar Beer Bread with Herbs
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! However, keep in mind that it may result in a denser bread. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter texture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Beer?
If you don’t have beer on hand or prefer not to use it, you can replace it with an equal amount of sparkling water or club soda. This will help keep the bread light and fluffy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftover bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or toast slices straight from the freezer!
Can I Add Other Ingredients or Herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your bread by adding ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or your favorite fresh herbs. Just keep an eye on the moisture content if you’re adding extra ingredients!
