Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious twist on traditional quick bread, then you must try my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread! It’s moist, flavorful, and loaded with cheesy goodness. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home and for good reason. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and tasty, or as a delightful addition to family gatherings.

What makes this quick bread so special is the combination of fresh zucchini and sharp cheddar cheese. The zucchini keeps the bread moist while adding a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the green onions. Trust me; this bread will turn heads at your next potluck!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy freshly baked bread in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy flavor and soft texture—perfect for any meal!
• Versatile: Great as a side dish, snack, or even toasted for breakfast; it suits many occasions.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it ahead of time, and store it for those busy days when you need something quick.
• Healthy twist: Packed with zucchini, this recipe sneaks in some veggies without compromising taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already!

For the Bread

• 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini
• 2 cups plain white flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp table salt
• 1 cup milk (2%, whole, or nonfat)
• 1 tbsp white or apple cider vinegar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 chopped green onions

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Add herbs: Toss in some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Include spices: A pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the plain white flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is important because it ensures even cooking throughout your bread. While that heats up, grab your mixing bowls!

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In one bowl, combine the milk and vinegar. Let it sit for about five minutes to create a buttermilk substitute. Then whisk in the egg and melted butter until smooth. This step adds moisture and richness to your quick bread.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking these dry ingredients helps evenly distribute the leavening agents so your bread rises beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to marry the wet and dry mixtures! Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Avoid overmixing; we want to keep our bread light and fluffy! Then fold in the shredded zucchini, chopped green onions, and grated cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour your batter into a greased loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula so it bakes uniformly. This is where all those delicious flavors meld together as it cooks!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Pop your loaf pan into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen—get ready! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to a wire rack. This step lets steam escape so your crust remains nice and crisp. Slice yourself a piece while it’s still warm—enjoy every bite of this delightful Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Baking this quick bread is easy and fun, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time!

• Use freshly grated zucchini – Freshly grated zucchini retains more moisture and flavor compared to store-bought pre-packaged options, giving your bread a delightful texture.
• Let the batter rest – Allowing the batter to sit for about 5 minutes before pouring it into the pan can help the baking powder activate, resulting in a fluffier bread.
• Don’t overmix – Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while gentle mixing keeps it light and airy.
• Experiment with different cheeses – While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to try other cheese varieties like pepper jack or gouda for an exciting twist in flavor.
• Check for doneness with a toothpick – Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s done. This helps avoid undercooking or overcooking.

How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Serving this delightful quick bread is all about enhancing its flavors and making it visually appealing. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top can add a pop of color and freshness.
• A drizzle of olive oil – A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving adds richness and complements the cheese beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad – A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread perfectly.
• Roasted vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can add depth to your meal, providing both flavor and nutrition alongside the quick bread.
• Soup of your choice – Pairing this bread with a warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or butternut squash, creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Pickles or olives platter – A small platter featuring assorted pickles or olives offers a tangy contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week. With a few simple storage tips, you can savor this treat fresh or reheated whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread into individual pieces for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the desired number of slices from the fridge or freezer.
• For refrigerated slices, place them directly on a baking sheet; for frozen slices, let them thaw briefly before placing them on the sheet.
• Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this scrumptious quick bread.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar in Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a delightful flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.

How do I make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread gluten-free?

To make this quick bread gluten-free, substitute plain white flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free to maintain consistency and texture.

Can I add other vegetables to my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Yes! You can enhance your quick bread by adding grated carrots, bell peppers, or even corn. Just be mindful of the moisture content and adjust accordingly.

How long will Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last up to 5 days. If frozen, enjoy it within 1-2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread brings warmth and joy to your kitchen as it has done in mine! It’s such a versatile recipe that’s perfect as a snack or side dish. I invite you to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!