This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is a tasty treat you can whip up quickly! It’s loaded with fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and herbs, all made with beer for a lovely flavor.
Seriously, who can resist warm bread fresh from the oven? I love slathering butter on a thick slice—heaven! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Give it a try! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is the base of this bread. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat flour works great too. Just expect a denser texture.
Baking Powder: This key ingredient helps the bread rise. If you’re out, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer, like mozzarella or gouda. Vegan cheese can also be a good alternative if you want to keep it dairy-free!
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture and flavor. If zucchini isn’t on hand, you could try shredded carrots or even pumpkin puree for a different twist.
Beer: While this recipe calls for beer, you can substitute it with sparkling water for a non-alcoholic version. The bubbles help give the bread a nice rise.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency When Mixing?
Mixing is crucial in bread making! The key is to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread. Here’s how I do it:
- Combine the dry ingredients well, then add the cheese and zucchini before pouring in the beer.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the mixture. Stop as soon as you see no dry flour. A few lumps are fine!
Don’t worry too much about perfection; it’s the simple nature of beer bread that makes it so easy and enjoyable! Happy baking!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning)
Add-ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
Wet Ingredients:
- 12 oz (1 can/bottle) beer (lager or ale works well)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, plus more for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 45-55 minutes to bake. After baking, allow for a brief cooling time for about 10 minutes in the pan. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy this delicious bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when your bread batter is prepared. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and dried herbs. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder and seasoning, so every bite will burst with flavor.
3. Mix in Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated zucchini until they are evenly mixed into the flour mixture. This adds lovely texture and a great flavor to your bread!
4. Add the Beer:
Now, pour the beer into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are totally fine. This is what keeps your bread light and fluffy!
5. Pour into the Pan:
Take your batter and pour it into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. It’s ready to go into the oven for baking!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Add a Touch of Butter:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with melted butter. This adds a lovely shine and keeps the crust soft.
8. Cool and Slice:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Waiting is hard, but it’ll be well worth it!
9. Enjoy Your Bread:
Slice your delicious zucchini cheddar herb beer bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a snack, a side for soups, or a hearty breakfast treat. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Note that the bread will be denser, but it will still be delicious! You may also wish to add a tablespoon of honey or sugar to help balance the flavors.
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving!
What Type of Beer Works Best?
A lager or ale works great in this recipe. The flavor of the beer will influence the taste of the bread, so choose one that you enjoy drinking! Avoid very bitter beers like IPAs, as they may alter the flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Beer?
Yes! If you’d like to skip the beer, you can use sparkling water or club soda. The carbonation will still help create a nice rise! You can also add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a slight tang.
