Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to incorporate more veggies into your baking, then this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is just the recipe for you! I was genuinely surprised when my neighbor shared this delightful treat with me on a warm summer day. The moist texture and cheesy flavor make it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this quick bread has become a staple in my kitchen.

What makes this bread even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a fantastic choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, the combination of green onions and sharp cheddar cheese elevates the flavor to something truly memorable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: You can have this delicious bread ready in just over an hour, making it a fantastic choice for last-minute meals.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The cheesy goodness combined with the subtle hint of zucchini makes this bread appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a snack, this quick bread fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This bread stays fresh for days, so you can easily bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. This quick bread is all about comfort and ease, so let’s get started.

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 Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Zucchini Alternative: Substitute shredded carrots or squash if you’re looking for something different but equally delicious.

How to Make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vinegar, egg, and melted butter until smooth. It’s important to mix these wet ingredients well because they will help bind everything together.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour your wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined—be careful not to overmix! This is key in keeping your quick bread light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Zucchini and Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Stir in the shredded zucchini, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. These ingredients add moisture and flavor that make this quick bread unforgettable.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply heavenly!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool prevents sogginess and helps maintain that perfect texture. Slice yourself a piece while it’s still warm—you deserve it!

Enjoy baking this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread; I’m sure it will become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Making this quick bread is a breeze, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure it’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked!

• Grate the zucchini finely – Finely grated zucchini not only blends well into the batter but also helps maintain moisture in the bread, leading to a tender crumb.

• Squeeze out excess moisture – After grating, gently squeeze the zucchini in a clean cloth or paper towel. Removing excess liquid prevents your bread from becoming soggy and ensures it bakes evenly.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing your milk and egg to come to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter, leading to better texture in the finished bread.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense bread rather than light and fluffy slices.

• Let it cool before slicing – Allowing the bread to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing enables it to set properly, making it easier to cut without crumbling.

How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

This delightful quick bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can serve it warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a snack any time of day.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – Sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill on top for a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each slice.
• Creamy spread – Serve with a dollop of cream cheese or a tangy herb spread for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cheddar.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the bread. Consider using arugula or spinach with cherry tomatoes for brightness.
• Vegetable soup – A bowl of hearty vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with this quick bread, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots provide additional nutrients and flavor that enhance every bite of the bread.
• Fruit platter – Fresh fruit adds a refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory notes in the quick bread. Think sliced apples, berries, or citrus segments for variety.

Now that you have all these serving ideas and pro tips at your fingertips, you’re ready to whip up this delightful Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread. Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re planning a busy week ahead or just want to savor the taste of homemade bread, this recipe has you covered.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quick bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the quick bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date for reference.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove a slice and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Warm it in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy as is, or spread a little butter on top for added richness!

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious bread, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar in Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist. Just ensure they melt well!

How do I know when my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is done baking?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs), your quick bread is ready. It should also have a nice golden color on top.

Can I add herbs or spices to my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Definitely! Adding herbs like dill or thyme can enhance the flavor profile. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread as much as I did! It’s not just about enjoying delicious food; it’s about sharing those moments with loved ones. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or a snack, this recipe is bound to bring smiles around your table. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!