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If you’re in the mood for a savory, cheesy bread packed with the goodness of zucchini, this Zucchini and Cheddar Cheese Bread is the perfect recipe. This bread combines the moistness of zucchini with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a soft, fluffy loaf. Whether you’re serving it as a side with soup or salad, enjoying it as a snack, or having it as a light meal, this bread is incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters! This recipe is easy to follow and the result is a delicious, golden-brown loaf with a moist crumb and a cheesy, savory taste.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 eggs
80 ml milk

80 ml olive oil
300 g flour (all-purpose)
120 g cheddar cheese (grated)

2 tsp baking powder
200 g zucchini (grated)
Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

Start by washing and grating the zucchini. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander and sprinkle a little salt over it. This helps draw out excess water from the zucchini.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then squeeze the zucchini with your hands or use a clean cloth to remove as much moisture as possible. This step ensures your bread doesn’t turn out soggy.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them lightly.

Add the milk and olive oil to the eggs and whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Stir until well-mixed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a thick, smooth batter forms.

4. Add the Cheese and Zucchini:

Once your batter is smooth, fold in the grated cheddar cheese and the grated, squeezed zucchini.
Stir the mixture until the zucchini and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Prepare the Baking Pan:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a loaf pan with olive oil, or you can line it with parchment paper for easier removal after baking.

6. Bake the Bread:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes. The bread should develop a golden-brown crust, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

7. Cool and Serve:

Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with butter, cream cheese, or a savory spread.

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice – Approximate, depending on the serving size):

Calories: 220
Protein: 8g

Carbohydrates: 25g
Fats: 10g
Fiber: 2g

Calcium: 12% of daily value
Iron: 6% of daily value

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese? Yes, you can! Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and savory flavor, but you can use any cheese that melts well. Mozzarella for a milder flavor or Parmesan for a saltier kick are good options.

2. Do I need to peel the zucchini? No, there’s no need to peel the zucchini. The skin is thin, softens during baking, and contains nutrients. However, if you prefer, you can peel it for a smoother texture.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. You can also try a 50/50 mix of both flours for a balance of nutrition and texture.

4. How do I make sure the bread is fully cooked? Insert a toothpick or a skewer into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean (without wet batter), your bread is done. If it comes out with batter, continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes, checking periodically.

Tips for Making the Perfect Zucchini and Cheddar Bread:

Drain the zucchini well: Zucchini contains a lot of water, which can make your bread soggy if not drained properly. After grating the zucchini, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for a while before squeezing out the excess moisture.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in dense, tough bread. Stir the ingredients just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Check your baking time: Every oven bakes differently, so start checking for doneness around the 60-minute mark. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Add herbs for extra flavor: For a little extra flavor, you can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of garlic powder to the batter. These pair wonderfully with the cheese and zucchini.
Experiment with additional ingredients: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like grated carrots or even some chopped nuts for extra texture. You can also add spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick.

Storage Tips:

At room temperature: Zucchini and Cheddar Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

In the refrigerator: If you want the bread to last longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-wrapped or kept in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
Freezing: This bread freezes well! Wrap it 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. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slices in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion:

Savory Zucchini and Cheddar Cheese Bread is a versatile recipe that you can easily make at home with a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The combination of the mild, moist zucchini with the richness of cheddar cheese creates a delightful bread that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a snack, a side dish, or a quick savory treat, this recipe is sure to please. With its simple preparation, easy storage options, and customizable ingredients, it’s a great go-to recipe for any occasion. Make a batch and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade zucchini bread with your favorite spread or dip!