This easy beer bread is packed with yummy zucchini, sharp cheddar, and tasty herbs. It’s perfect for dinners or as a snack, plus it smells amazing while baking!
I love how quick and simple this bread is to make. Just mix, pour, and bake! And let’s be honest, who can resist cheesy, herb-filled goodness? 🍞💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is your base, providing the structure for the bread. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead.
Beer: A standard lager or ale adds flavor and helps the bread rise. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, use sparkling water or a non-alcoholic beer for similar effects.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini keeps the bread moist. If you’re out of zucchini, grated carrots or summer squash can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain excess moisture!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. Feel free to swap it for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick, or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Incorporate Ingredients for Beer Bread?
Mixing the ingredients correctly is key to a good beer bread. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by whisking the dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution. This prevents clumping.
- Add in the shredded cheese and zucchini, making sure they’re evenly coated in flour. This helps keep them from sinking!
- Pour in the cold beer all at once, then gently stir. Be cautious not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay. This gives your bread a light texture.
Your batter should be thick but not dry, so don’t worry if it looks a bit chunky. Trust the baking process will do its magic!
Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or mixed Italian herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (12 oz) can or bottle of beer (lager or ale works well), cold
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated or finely shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, drained if very watery)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beer bread will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 50 to 60 minutes to bake. You’ll want to allow a little cooling time after baking, but trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread cooks evenly. While the oven is heating up, you can prepare your loaf pan. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or use parchment paper to line it.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, dried thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. This step is key to evenly distribute the baking powder and seasonings throughout the flour.
3. Add Cheese and Zucchini:
Next, gently stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated zucchini, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix until these ingredients are evenly spread throughout the flour mixture.
4. Combine with Beer:
Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient! Pour the cold beer into the dry ingredients. Carefully stir until everything is just combined. The batter will be thick and may look a little lumpy—that’s okay!
5. Fill the Loaf Pan:
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, gently smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s evenly distributed in the pan for even cooking.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will be divine!
7. Cooling Time:
Once it’s done, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent the bottom from getting soggy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your delicious zucchini cheddar herb beer bread and serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with butter, spreads, or alongside soups and salads. Enjoy every bite!
This savory bread is sure to be a hit at your table, making it a delightful addition to any meal or snack time!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Cheddar Herb Beer Bread
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even pepper jack for a little heat. Just make sure the cheese is grated for easy melting!
How Should I Store Leftover Beer Bread?
Store any leftover beer bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and toast to enjoy!
Can I Make This Bread Without Beer?
Yes, you can substitute the beer with an equal amount of sparkling water. This will give you similar carbonation that helps the bread rise. You can also use non-alcoholic beer if you prefer that flavor.
What If My Zucchini Is Very Watery?
Great question! If your zucchini is very watery, it’s best to grate it and then squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy and ensure the best texture!
