Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious treat that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, look no further than this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread. I never thought zucchini could shine in a quick bread until my neighbor handed me a slice one sunny afternoon. The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh green onions with the tender zucchini makes every bite an absolute delight!

This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up! Whether you serve it warm from the oven or enjoy it as leftovers, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Whipping up this bread takes just 10 minutes of prep time—it’s almost too easy!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The cheesy goodness paired with savory green onions makes this a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and serve it throughout the week as a delicious side or snack.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh zucchini, this bread not only tastes great but also adds some nutrition to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create an unforgettable quick bread. Let’s gather what we need for our Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!

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

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
• Herb It Up: Toss in your favorite herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for unique twists.
• Veggie Boost: Add in other veggies like grated carrots or corn for extra texture and taste.

How to Make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your loaf pan at this stage ensures the quick bread comes out easily once baked. A well-greased pan means no sticky surprises!

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout the flour. It’ll help our bread rise beautifully!

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the milk, vinegar, egg, and melted butter. Whisk these together until smooth. The vinegar reacts with the milk to create a lovely tang and helps keep our bread moist.

Step 4: Fold in Cheese and Vegetables

Add your shredded zucchini, chopped green onions, and grated cheddar cheese into the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine without overmixing—the goal is tender bread!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overwork it! Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of that soft texture we crave.

Step 6: Bake Your Quick Bread

Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Allow your quick bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice it up and enjoy! Whether it’s served warm or at room temperature, you’re in for a treat with this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Making quick bread can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor of your bread. Opt for medium-sized zucchini for the best results.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to a dense loaf. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

• Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes and then on a wire rack helps set its structure, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for an exciting flavor twist.

• Store properly: To keep your bread fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It can stay at room temperature for up to three days or be frozen for up to three months.

How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

This quick bread is not only delicious on its own but can also be enhanced with thoughtful serving ideas. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or as part of a hearty meal, here are some ideas to make the most of this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some parsley or chives on top right before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• A dollop of sour cream or yogurt: A simple spoonful adds a creamy texture that complements the cheesy flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the bread, adding freshness and crunch.

• Vegetable soup: Pairing this bread with a warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting meal, perfect for chilly days.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and squash enhance your meal’s nutritional value while providing vibrant flavors.

• Fruit platter: Serve alongside slices of seasonal fruits such as apples or grapes for a refreshing contrast to the savory bread.

Enjoy creating memories around this scrumptious Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quick bread to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Slice the quick bread before freezing for easier access later.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each slice for about 30 seconds on medium power.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious quick bread.

Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar in the Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is moist?

Make sure not to overbake the bread. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean but not dry.

What can I serve with Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

This hearty bread pairs wonderfully with soups and salads, making it an excellent side dish for any meal.

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

Yes! Adding herbs like dill or spices such as garlic powder can enhance the flavor even further. Get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread brings warmth and joy to your kitchen as it has done in mine. It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that makes any meal feel special. Enjoy baking this delightful recipe and savor every bite! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!