I’ve Never Eaten Such Delicious Zucchini Bread!
A Simple, Healthy, and Savory Recipe You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
If you’ve only ever had zucchini bread as a sweet treat, prepare to be amazed. This savory zucchini bread is a game-changer! Packed with cheddar cheese, green onions, and the natural moisture of zucchini, it’s hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully soft. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make with basic ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Whether you’re trying to use up garden-fresh zucchini or just looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks, this recipe is a winner. It’s great warm out of the oven, toasted with a little butter, or served alongside soups and salads. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make one loaf of this unbelievably delicious zucchini bread:
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1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini – Leave the moisture in; it helps keep the bread tender. No need to squeeze it out!
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1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional) – Adds a subtle savory bite and freshness.
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2 large eggs – Helps bind everything together and adds structure.
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3/4 cup sour cream – Makes the bread rich and super moist. You can also use Greek yogurt as a substitute.
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1/4 cup butter, melted and cooled – Adds flavor and tenderness to the crumb.
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works beautifully, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.
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2 cups all-purpose flour – Gives the bread structure. You can try half whole wheat for added fiber.
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1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the loaf rise.
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the sour cream to create lift and softness.
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1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional) – For a slight kick of savory warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and melted butter until fully combined and smooth.
3. Fold in the Add-Ins
Stir in the shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, and green onions (if using). The batter will be thick and a bit lumpy—perfect!
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Combining them separately helps distribute the leavening evenly throughout the bread.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir gently, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep the bread light and tender.
6. Pour and Smooth
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
7. Bake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
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Enjoy a warm slice with butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
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Pair it with a bowl of soup or chili for a satisfying lunch.
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Toast slices and top with avocado, eggs, or hummus for a healthy snack.
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Use leftovers to make savory French toast (yes, really!).
Pro Tips & Variations
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Add herbs: Chopped fresh dill, chives, or parsley work great in this recipe.
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Make it spicy: Try adding a pinch of cayenne or a handful of diced jalapeños.
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Swap the cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends—feta, parmesan, or even gouda are fantastic.
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Gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check your baking powder is gluten-free too.
Storage
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At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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In the fridge: Keeps well for up to a week.
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Freeze it: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Final Thoughts
This savory zucchini bread is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s versatile, wholesome, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends. Once you try it, you might just say what I did:
