Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

This Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños is a delightful twist on traditional bread. Perfect for brunches, snacks, or as a savory side dish, this recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and a hint of jalapeño heat. The result is a moist, flavorful bread that pairs perfectly with soups or can be enjoyed all on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The blend of cheddar and jalapeños offers a delicious contrast to the mildness of zucchini.
• Moist Texture: The grated zucchini keeps the bread incredibly moist without being overly dense.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or alongside your favorite soup or salad.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Freezer Friendly: This quick bread can be easily frozen, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk
• Grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and gives your bread its classic shape.
• Grater: Helps to shred zucchini quickly, ensuring moisture distribution in the bread.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

To create this Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups zucchini (grated)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted and allowed to cool)
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar (grated)
• 2 – 4 jalapeños (finely diced)

How to Make Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard loaf pan (9×5 inches) with parchment paper. Spray it with non-stick spray or coat it lightly with softened butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Place the grated zucchini in a clean towel over a strainer. Allow it to sit while you prepare other ingredients. After about 10 minutes, squeeze out excess liquid from the zucchini. It doesn’t have to be completely dry but aim to remove as much moisture as possible.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. You may sift these together for better texture if you prefer.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, mix together the buttermilk, cooled melted butter, and room-temperature egg until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are still some lumps.

Step 6: Add Zucchini, Cheese, and Jalapeños

Fold in the grated zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños into the batter. Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed; expect a thick batter.

Step 7: Transfer to Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan or muffin cups if preferred. Spread it evenly across the surface.

Step 8: Bake

Place in the preheated oven. Bake for one hour if using a loaf pan or about 35 minutes for muffins until golden brown on top.

Step 9: Check for Doneness

Insert a toothpick into the center of your bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s done! Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your warm Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

Serving your Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños can elevate your meal experience. This flavorful bread pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its cheesy and spicy notes.

For Breakfast

• Scrambled Eggs: Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty morning meal.
• Avocado Toast: Top the zucchini bread with smashed avocado, adding creaminess to each bite.

As an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Pair slices of zucchini bread with a selection of cheeses for a delightful appetizer spread.
• Spicy Salsa: Serve with a fresh salsa for an extra kick that complements the jalapeños.

With Soups

• Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, enjoy the savory bread dipped in warm tomato soup.
• Chili: The richness of chili balances well with the flavors of the zucchini bread.

For Snacks

• Hummus Dip: Offer slices with hummus for a healthy, satisfying snack option.
• Pickles or Olives: Add a side of pickles or olives to bring in contrasting flavors.

How to Perfect Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

Perfecting your Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out great every time.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Use firm, fresh zucchini for optimal moisture and flavor in your bread.
• Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Remove excess liquid from grated zucchini to prevent sogginess in your bread.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your buttermilk and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and rise.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check Doneness Correctly: Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

Pairing side dishes with your Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the bread.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide an earthy complement to the cheesy quick bread.
3. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad can balance the savory elements of the dish wonderfully.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add crunch and heartiness alongside your zucchini bread.
5. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides texture and acidity that pairs well with savory flavors.
6. Grilled Chicken Skewers: These are perfect for adding protein, making it a complete meal without overshadowing the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly.

• Not draining the zucchini: Failing to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini can lead to a soggy loaf. Always take a moment to drain the zucchini before mixing it in.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; lumps are okay!

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold buttermilk or eggs can affect how well they incorporate into the batter. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature for best results.

• Ignoring baking time: Ovens may vary, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness rather than relying solely on cooking times.

• Using the wrong pan size: A different loaf pan size can change baking times and texture. Stick with a 9×5-inch loaf pan for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bread in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

• Wrap slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer bag or airtight container.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.

• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños, here are some common questions and answers.

Can I use other cheeses in this Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta cheese for different flavors.

How do I know when my bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Can I add more jalapeños?

Yes! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Just remember that more jalapeños will increase spiciness.

What should I serve with this Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños?

This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as part of a brunch spread. Enjoy it warm with butter!

Final Thoughts

This Savory Zucchini Quick Bread with Cheddar and Jalapeños is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding herbs or different vegetables. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack anytime. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!