Cheddar, chive and zucchini quick bread

Introduction

Cheddar, Chive, and Zucchini Quick Bread is a savory delight that brings together the subtle sweetness of zucchini, the sharpness of cheddar, and the fresh taste of chives. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for lunch or dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any yeast, making it a go-to recipe when you’re short on time but craving something delicious.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups zucchini, shredded (do not squeeze out moisture)
¼ cup fresh chives, diced

2 large eggs
¾ cup sour cream
¼ cup butter, melted and cooled

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

Directions

Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, diced chives, eggs, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.

Bake the Bread:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese and chives on top, and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, slice the bread and serve with a pat of butter if desired.

Tips

Don’t Squeeze the Zucchini: The moisture from the zucchini is essential for keeping the bread moist and tender. Simply shred and add it directly to the batter.
Additions and Variations: You can enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic, a handful of chopped walnuts, or even some cooked bacon bits.
Storage: This quick bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute the cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

2. What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor and moisture content.

3. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this bread?
Yes, finely grated carrots or chopped spinach would be great additions. Just make sure to adjust the moisture content accordingly.

Conclusion

Cheddar, Chive, and Zucchini Quick Bread is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with soups, salads, or even as a savory snack. The combination of zucchini, cheddar, and chives creates a moist, flavorful bread that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade quick bread!