This delightful beer bread is packed with juicy zucchini, sharp cheddar, and fresh herbs. It’s so easy to make, you’ll want to whip up a loaf every week!
I love how this bread is perfect warm from the oven or toasted the next day. It’s great as a side with soup or just slathered with butter. Yum! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of our bread. If you need a gluten-free option, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may vary a bit.
Beer: A lager or pale ale works best here, but any beer you enjoy will do. You could also use non-alcoholic beer or soda (like club soda) as a substitute if you’re avoiding alcohol.
Zucchini: Fresh grated zucchini adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute it with shredded carrots or even finely chopped spinach if zucchini isn’t on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you prefer, feel free to use mild cheddar or another type of cheese like Monterey Jack or even a blend for variety!
What’s the Best Way to Incorporate Beer into This Bread?
Adding beer to the bread dough is a fantastic way to add moisture and a rich flavor. Just remember to keep the beer at room temperature to ensure it mixes easily into the batter.
- Gently pour the beer into the dry ingredients.
- Stir until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy—overmixing can lead to tough bread.
- Keep an eye on the baking time, as the moisture from the beer can affect how quickly the bread cooks.
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 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 12-ounce bottle (or can) of beer (preferably a lager or pale ale, at room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing the top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 to 55 minutes of baking time, totaling about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. Once cooled, you can enjoy your delicious bread warm or at room temperature!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to make removing the bread easier later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper. This ensures all the dry ingredients are well combined.
3. Add the Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated zucchini. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients for a tasty bite every time!
4. Combine with Beer:
Pour in the beer and give it a gentle stir until just combined. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy, so don’t worry about mixing it too much; this keeps the bread tender.
5. Transfer and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. This helps it bake evenly.
6. Butter It Up:
Brush the melted butter over the top of the batter. This will create a lovely, golden crust as it bakes.
7. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cooling Time:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and Serve:
Once cooled (or warm if you can’t wait!), slice the bread and serve. It’s perfect fresh, and it’s a great side for soups or as a snack on its own. Enjoy your savory zucchini cheddar herb beer bread!
This bread is not just easy to make; it’s a comforting treat that brightens up any meal! Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, absolutely! You can substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will change the flavor profile slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
To store leftover bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Make This Recipe With Whole Wheat Flour?
Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you do, you may need to add a little more liquid (like a splash of beer or water) to keep the bread moist.
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the beer with non-alcoholic beer or even club soda. Just ensure whatever you use is carbonated to keep that light texture in the bread!
