This Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is a warm, fluffy delight! Packed with fresh herbs and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for any meal or just as a snack.
Honestly, this bread is like a hug in a bite! I love making sandwiches with it or just toasting a slice. You’ll want to keep this warm and cheesy treat close by! 🥖🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This helps give the bread structure. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can work. Just keep in mind that texture may change.
Shredded Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Either works great! I usually go with zucchini because it’s juicy and sweet. You can also use carrots or even finely grated sweet potato if zucchini isn’t available.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For that great flavor, go for sharp cheddar. If you want something milder, substitute with mozzarella or a blend of different cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and tenderness. Can’t find buttermilk? You can make a quick substitute by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice—let it sit for 5 minutes!
How Do I Make Sure My Bread is Moist and Fluffy?
Getting a perfect texture can be tricky, but here are some tips. Pay special attention to how you handle the squash and mixing:
- Drain Excess Moisture: Squeeze out as much water as you can from the shredded squash. This will help your bread not to be soggy.
- Mix Gently: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixture leads to dense bread.
- Check for Doneness: Bake until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it after 50 minutes.
How to Make Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini or yellow squash (excess moisture squeezed out)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. So, you can have delicious cheesy bread ready in just over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make for easy removal later.
2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents for a nice rise!
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy. Then add in the buttermilk and vegetable oil, stirring well to combine all those tasty wet ingredients together.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently mix them together until you don’t see any dry flour left. Avoid overmixing—it’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy!
5. Fold in the Goodies:
Next, fold in the shredded zucchini or yellow squash, cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, basil, and oregano. These ingredients really give the bread its flavor and texture, so fold gently until evenly mixed.
6. Bake the Bread:
Pour your delicious batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When you’re ready to eat, slice the bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
It’s great as a snack, side dish, or even when toasted with some butter. Enjoy every cheesy, herby bite!
FAQ for Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a milder mild cheddar. Just remember that different cheeses have different melting qualities, which can slightly alter the texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Can I Substitute the Squash with Something Else?
Yes! If squash isn’t your thing, you can use shredded carrots or sweet potato for a slightly different flavor. Just make sure to remove excess moisture, similar to the squash, to keep the texture right.
Can I Make This Bread Vegan?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use a non-dairy milk in place of buttermilk (mix plant milk with vinegar for a quick substitute), and use a vegan butter alternative instead of vegetable oil. The bread will still be delicious!
