One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe
If you love the idea of a comforting bread that combines rich cheesiness with the fresh, delicate flavor of zucchini, then you are going to adore this One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe. It’s delightfully moist, packed with savory notes, and best of all, made effortlessly in a single bowl, which means less mess and more time for you to enjoy every delicious slice. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy brunch or a snack to impress friends, this recipe promises a delicious treat that feels both homey and sophisticated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays its own special role, making the bread tender, flavorful, and perfectly cheesy. From the sharp cheddar adding depth to the zucchini bringing moisture and tenderness, every component is essential to the delicious outcome.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread structure and the perfect crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully, keeping it light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder to achieve a tender texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle kick that brings warmth and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle spice that complements the cheese and zucchini.
- 2 large eggs: The binding agents that hold everything together while adding richness.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist without overpowering the flavors.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra moisture for that tender crumb.
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (squeezed of excess moisture): Brings fresh moisture and a lovely, subtle earthiness.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that gives the bread an irresistible cheesy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch enhancing the cheesy profile.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional): Introduces a bright herbal note that lifts the flavor brilliantly.
How to Make One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly. This ensures your bread comes out smoothly without sticking, ready to reveal its golden crust.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Combining these ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents and seasoning evenly throughout the bread.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Now stir in the eggs, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Mix just until everything is combined; overmixing can make the bread tough, so gentle folding is key here.
Step 4: Fold in Zucchini and Cheeses
Gently fold the shredded zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and optional chives or green onions into the batter. This step is where the magic happens—each bite will be filled with moist zucchini and bursts of savory, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface gently. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe
Garnishes
This zucchini bread is fantastic on its own, but a light spread of herb butter or a dollop of sour cream can elevate it even further. Freshly chopped chives or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top add a lovely finishing touch and pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheesy zucchini bread with a simple green salad for a light lunch or alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup to complement the savory flavors. It’s also wonderful with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken, making it a versatile side at dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bread and use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, smoked salmon, or even scrambled eggs. You could also cut it into cubes and serve as cheesy croutons in your favorite soups or salads, adding texture and flavor easily.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover zucchini bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration will extend freshness up to 5 days, just be sure to bring slices back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
This One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice it first, then wrap individual pieces in parchment and foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It’s a real time-saver for busy days, keeping well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread warm, simply toast single slices or heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Microwaving works too but may result in a softer crust. Either way, reheating refreshes the flavors and brings back that fresh-baked delight.
FAQs
Can I substitute the zucchini for another vegetable?
Absolutely! Grated zucchini works best for moisture and texture, but shredded carrots or grated zucchini’s close relative, summer squash, can also be delicious swaps, offering slightly different flavors and colors.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
There’s no need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds a pleasant texture and vibrant green flecks throughout the bread. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture for the best baking results.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
You can try replacing the yogurt or sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and swapping cheeses with vegan versions. Keep in mind this will change the texture and flavor somewhat, but it’s a great tweak for those avoiding dairy.
What is the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is a top choice for its tangy, robust flavor. However, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a smoked cheese for unique tastes. Just be sure the cheese melts well and complements the zucchini.
Is this bread suitable for freezing and reheating?
Definitely! This One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe freezes and reheats very well, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to try this One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor and comfort. Whether you’re a long-time zucchini bread fan or venturing into savory quick breads for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!
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One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread is a savory, moist quick bread perfect for a comforting snack or a flavorful side. With sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese folded into shredded zucchini and lightly spiced with garlic and black pepper, it offers a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and fresh veggie taste. Simple to make, this bread requires just one bowl and minimal prep, making it ideal for a quick yet satisfying homemade treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Add-ins
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (squeezed of excess moisture)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Zucchini and Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped chives or green onions if using. Folding ensures even distribution without overworking the batter.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try mixing in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Swap different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for varied flavor profiles.
- This bread tastes great warm or at room temperature and freezes well for future enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American