This Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread is moist and packed with flavor! It’s got the goodness of zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of herbs all in one simple loaf.
Seriously, who doesn’t love the sound of “beer bread”? I mean, it’s like a wonderful party for your tastebuds! Perfect for a cozy dinner or just a snack while binge-watching your favorite show.
I enjoy serving this bread warm right out of the oven, often slathered with a little butter. It’s quick to make, and the smell while baking is heavenly—trust me, you won’t want to wait!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for this bread. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to use whole wheat flour. Just know it might change the texture a bit, making it denser.
Baking Powder: This is a crucial ingredient to help the bread rise. If you’re out, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice to achieve the same leavening effect.
Herbs: Dried herbs add amazing flavor. While rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning are great choices, feel free to experiment with your favorites like dill or parsley. Fresh herbs can also work, just double the amount since they are milder.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this bread a nice kick. If you want a different flavor, try using gouda, pepper jack for some heat, or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version!
Zucchini: Grated zucchini keeps the bread moist. If zucchini isn’t available, finely grated carrots or even summer squash can be good substitutes.
Beer: Any light lager or stout adds flavor. No beer? Use club soda or a non-alcoholic beer for a similar rise without the alcohol.
How Do I Get My Beer Bread to Rise Properly?
Rising perfectly is key to fluffy beer bread! Follow these tips for the best result:
- Make sure your baking powder is fresh—it should bubble when mixed with water!
- Avoid overmixing; you want to combine the ingredients gently. A few lumps are totally okay!
- Pour the beer in slowly and mix just until everything is combined to maintain the air in the batter.
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking for the best rise.
Happy baking! Enjoy your delicious creations.
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 to 1¼ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- 12 ounces (1 bottle or can) beer (lager or ale works well)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beer bread takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for a bit before slicing, so plan for about an hour of total time to enjoy warm, homemade bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, take a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter. Alternatively, you can line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and dried herbs until everything is well combined. This will help ensure an even distribution of flavor!
3. Add Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated zucchini, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The zucchini should be squeezed dry to prevent the bread from being too moist.
4. Incorporate the Beer:
Now, pour in the beer and gently mix everything together using a wooden spoon or spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to be thick and a little lumpy, which is just right!
5. Transfer to the Pan:
Once your batter is ready, transfer it to your prepared loaf pan. Spread the batter evenly across the pan so it cooks uniformly.
6. Optional Butter Brushing:
If you’d like a golden crust, brush the top with melted butter before baking. This adds extra flavor and a lovely color to your bread!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. When it’s ready, a toothpick inserted into the center will come out clean, and the top should be beautifully golden brown.
8. Cool Down:
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This helps to avoid sogginess and keeps that crust nice!
9. Slice and Enjoy:
When the bread has cooled, slice it up and enjoy! This zucchini cheddar herb beer bread pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or even on its own as a tasty snack.
Happy baking, and enjoy every slice of this savory delight!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! However, the bread may turn out denser. You might want to add a bit of extra liquid or adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it bakes through properly.
What If I Don’t Have Beer on Hand?
No problem! If you don’t want to use beer, you can replace it with an equal amount of club soda or a non-alcoholic beer. This will still give your bread the lift it needs without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
To store leftovers, wrap the completely cooled bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick reheat!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Customize the Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your bread by adding ingredients like chopped herbs, diced jalapeños for a kick, or even cooked bacon bits for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overload the batter, or it may affect the texture!
