If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to use up those extra zucchinis, look no further than this Easy and Moist Zucchini Bread recipe. This savory bread is packed with fresh zucchini, aromatic thyme, and melty Cheddar cheese, making it a perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or a side dish, this zucchini bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Zucchini Bread:
- 325 grams zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (stems removed and leaves minced)
- 80 grams Cheddar cheese (cut into ⅓-inch cubes)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Pan
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9″x5″ loaf pan with a thin layer of olive oil and dust with flour to coat evenly. Alternatively, line the inside of the pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the Zucchini
- Shred and Drain Zucchini: Remove the ends of the zucchini and shred it into a colander using the large side of a box grater. Add the salt and toss to distribute evenly. Allow the excess water to drain from the zucchini for at least 15 minutes. Press down on the zucchini to remove as much moisture as possible.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and paprika until well combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, olive oil, and water together until the mixture is light and frothy. Add the drained zucchini and thyme to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Mix Batter: Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter to keep the bread tender.
Assemble the Bread
- Layer Batter and Cheese: Spread half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add half the Cheddar cheese cubes evenly over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top and smooth the surface. Stick the remaining cheese cubes on top.
Bake
- Bake Bread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool
- Cool Bread: When the zucchini bread is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the pan. Then transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this delicious zucchini bread, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Box grater
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 9″x5″ loaf pan
- Wire rack
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, for a unique twist.
- Herb Alternatives: Substitute thyme with other fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or chives to change the flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Incorporate additional ingredients like chopped nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy it warm, reheat slices in the microwave or toaster oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze zucchini bread?
Yes, you can freeze zucchini bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How do I prevent the bread from being too dense?
Make sure to drain the zucchini thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Also, avoid over-mixing the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser and the flavor more robust.
What can I use instead of olive oil?
You can use melted butter, vegetable oil, or coconut oil as a substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
Conclusion
This Easy and Moist Zucchini Bread is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and savory treat. With its perfect blend of fresh zucchini, Cheddar cheese, and aromatic thyme, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade zucchini bread!