This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is a quick and fun treat! It combines fresh zucchini, bright herbs, and cheesy goodness—all baked into a fluffy loaf.
It’s so simple to whip up, and the beer adds great flavor without the fuss. I always love enjoying a slice warm with butter—it just brings me joy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the bread. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well too!
Baking Powder: This helps the bread rise. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results. If you’re in a pinch, you can make a substitute with baking soda (1 tsp) and vinegar (1 tsp).
Fresh Zucchini: For moisture and health benefits, use medium-sized zucchini. If you’re short on zucchini, you can use grated carrots or squash as a substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a robust flavor. You can swap it with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to change up the taste.
Beer: Any lager or ale works great! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use club soda or sparkling water. Just know, this may slightly change the flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Beer Bread?
The key to getting that perfect bread texture is not to overmix the batter. When adding the beer, stir just until the ingredients are combined. This helps keep the bread light and fluffy!
- Mix your dry ingredients well before adding the wet ones.
- After adding beer, use a gentle folding motion with a spatula. This prevents the dough from becoming dense.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean if it’s ready.
Following these tips will ensure you have a moist, flavorful loaf every time you make it! Enjoy your baking!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated fresh zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 12 oz (1 bottle or can) cold beer (lager or ale works well)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 45-55 minutes to bake. So, you are looking at around 1 hour total before you can enjoy this tasty bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with some butter or oil, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, dried herbs, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Add the Zucchini:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini to the dry mixture. Make sure the zucchini is evenly distributed, but be careful not to overmix at this stage.
4. Combine with Beer:
Now it’s time to add the beer! Pour the cold beer into the mixture and stir lightly. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy—this is perfect! Just remember, no overmixing!
5. Transfer to the Loaf Pan:
Now, pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it looks nice and even.
6. Add Butter for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you’d like, you can brush the top of the batter with melted butter to give it a delicious golden, crispy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake Your Bread:
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The top should be nice and golden brown, and if you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, move it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you can’t wait, serve it warm right away!
9. Slice and Enjoy:
Slice up your delicious zucchini cheddar herb beer bread and enjoy it as a savory snack or paired alongside your favorite soup or salad!
This bread is moist, savory, and packed with cheesy, herby flavors thanks to the zucchini and beer. Get ready for a delightful treat! 🍞
FAQ About Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be denser. You might want to use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose for a lighter result.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Beer?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer to make it without beer, you can use an equal amount of non-alcoholic beer, club soda, or sparkling water. The carbonation helps achieve that fluffy texture.
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 place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Bread?
This bread is fantastic on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with butter, olive oil, or alongside soups and salads. You can also make delicious sandwiches with it!
