This easy beer bread is packed with delicious zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s simple to whip up and makes a perfect side for any meal or a tasty snack!
I love how quick it is to make—just mix, pour, and bake! The cheesy, herby smell fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. Plus, who can resist a slice of warm bread? 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is the star here for a sturdy loaf. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead. I find that it works well while still giving that nice texture.
Beer: You need a lager or pale ale for this recipe, but you can use any type you enjoy. Non-alcoholic beer or even a sparkling water or soda can work in a pinch, though the flavor may change a bit.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key, but if you can’t get it, grated carrots can be a tasty substitute! Just remember to squeeze out extra moisture to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Herbs: Fresh herbs give a great punch of flavor. If you don’t have thyme or oregano, Italian seasoning can be an easy swap. I often throw in a bit of fresh basil too if I have some on hand!
How Do You Ensure Your Zucchini Bread Stays Moist and Fluffy?
Getting the right balance of moisture is crucial for a perfect beer bread. Here’s how to tackle it:
- Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini—this prevents a soggy loaf.
- Mix everything gently after adding the beer; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- If using cold beer, let it sit at room temperature for a bit. This helps with even mixing and a better rise!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to baking a wonderfully fluffy zucchini cheddar herb beer bread every time!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out (about 1 to 1 ½ cups)
- 12 oz (1 can or bottle) beer, at room temperature (lager or pale ale recommended)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (optional, for brushing on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini cheddar herb beer bread takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50-60 minutes to bake. After that, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan and then completely before slicing. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes before you can enjoy your warm, homemade bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper so your bread won’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, thyme, and oregano. This helps evenly distribute the ingredients throughout your bread.
3. Add Cheese:
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing it gently into the dry ingredients so it’s evenly coated. This keeps the cheese from sinking to the bottom while baking!
4. Incorporate Zucchini:
Fold in the grated zucchini gently. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Combine Beer:
Now, pour in the beer and mix the batter gently just until it comes together. Don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy; overmixing can make the bread tough, and we want it to be soft and moist!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you want a nice golden crust, brush melted butter over the top before baking.
7. Bake:
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with foil.
8. Cool and Slice:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy your delicious homemade zucchini cheddar herb beer bread warm or at room temperature!
Happy baking, and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of your fresh bread!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour in This Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. This will help keep the texture light and airy while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week.
Can I freeze this zucchini beer bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before slicing.
What Beer Should I Use?
A lager or pale ale works best for flavor, but feel free to use any beer you enjoy! Keep in mind that darker beers may alter the taste slightly, so choose one that you like to drink.
