This easy zucchini cheddar herb beer bread is a delightful treat! With cheesy goodness, fresh herbs, and a hint of zucchini, it’s super tasty and perfect for any meal.
Honestly, who could resist a warm slice with butter? I love making this bread when friends are over—everyone can’t get enough of it! 😄 Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is a must for structure. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try whole wheat flour. Just be aware that this may make the bread denser.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives moisture and flavor. If you don’t have zucchini, shredded carrots can work in a pinch, but they may alter the taste a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is perfect for a flavorful kick. You could swap in other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a different twist!
Beer: A lager or pale ale works best, but if you want alcohol-free, use non-alcoholic beer or even sparkling water for a lighter texture.
Herbs: Dried mixed herbs add great flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute those—just use a little more since they’re milder!
How Do You Get the Best Texture in Beer Bread?
The key to a great beer bread is all in the mixing. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, do not overmix. This keeps the bread light and fluffy.
- Mix until just combined; some lumps are okay.
- The zucchini should be grated and drained to remove excess moisture—this step is essential!
- A quick bake at a high temperature helps the bread rise nicely and creates a golden crust.
Remember, the longer you mix after adding the beer, the denser your bread will be. So take it easy, and you’ll end up with perfect beer bread!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried mixed herbs (such as thyme, oregano, rosemary)
- 1 to 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and drained
- 12 oz (1 bottle or can) beer (lager or pale ale works well)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty beer bread recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. Allow for an additional 10 minutes of cooling time before slicing. So, you can have freshly baked bread in about 1.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or oil, or by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Give it a good stir until everything is mixed evenly.
3. Add Cheese and Zucchini:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the grated zucchini into the dry ingredients. Make sure everything is coated with the flour mixture for a better distribution of flavors.
4. Combine with Beer:
Pour the beer into the mixture, and stir gently until just combined. Remember, it’s important not to overmix. The batter should be thick and lumpy—just the way you want it!
5. Transfer to the Pan:
Carefully transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula as needed. Don’t worry about it looking perfect; it will rise as it bakes!
6. Bake the Bread:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and inviting.
7. Add a Flavorful Finish:
If you want extra flavor, brush the top of the bread with melted butter right after you take it out of the oven. This adds a lovely sheen and a yummy taste!
8. Cool and Slice:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This will help maintain its texture.
Enjoy your delicious, moist zucchini cheddar herb beer bread! It’s perfect as a side dish or with a spread of butter. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! Just keep in mind that it may result in a denser bread. You might want to use a mix of the two flours for a lighter texture.
Can I Make This Bread Without Beer?
Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use non-alcoholic beer or sparkling water. This will still give the bread a nice rise and fluffy texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and warm it in the oven before serving!
What Can I Serve with This Bread?
This delicious beer bread pairs wonderfully with soups and salads. You can also enjoy it warm with butter or your favorite spread, or even slice it for sandwiches!
