If you’ve ever found yourself with an abundance of zucchini and no idea what to do with it, this Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is about to become your new favorite recipe! This savory, cheesy bread is moist, fluffy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect way to use up fresh zucchini while adding a cheesy, buttery twist that makes every bite irresistible.

Imagine warm slices of this golden-brown bread slathered with butter or dipped into a hot bowl of soup—comfort food at its finest! Plus, since it’s a quick bread, there’s no need for yeast or rising time. You’ll have a fresh-baked loaf in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Recipe

No yeast required – This is a fuss-free quick bread, so you don’t have to worry about kneading or rising time.
Cheesy & Savory – The sharp cheddar adds an incredible depth of flavor.
Moist & Tender – Thanks to the zucchini, this bread stays soft and fluffy.
Versatile – Enjoy it for breakfast, as a side with soups and salads, or as a snack on its own.

What Does Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread Taste Like?

This bread has a light, tender crumb with a delicious balance of savory flavors. The zucchini adds natural moisture without overpowering the taste, while the sharp cheddar brings a rich, cheesy bite. A touch of butter makes it slightly indulgent, and the vinegar in the milk gives it just the right amount of tang, similar to buttermilk. The golden crust is slightly crisp, making it perfectly sliceable and oh-so-satisfying!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious zucchini cheddar quick bread:

1 1/2 cups grated zucchini – No need to peel! The skin adds color and texture.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for our bread, keeping it soft and fluffy.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the bread rise beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the vinegar for extra lift.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
1 cup milk – 2% works best, but whole or non-fat are fine too.
1 tablespoon vinegar – White or apple cider vinegar creates a buttermilk-like effect.
1 egg – Binds everything together and adds richness.
3 tablespoons melted butter – For flavor and a tender crumb.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor!

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions

Want more flavor? Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of black pepper.
Love herbs? Mix in chopped fresh chives, thyme, or parsley.
Extra cheesy? Try a mix of cheddar and Parmesan for more depth.
Gluten-free? Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk and vegan butter, and swap cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How to Make Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Making this bread is so simple, you’ll want to bake it all the time!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Grate the zucchini and gently squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt

This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents so your bread rises perfectly.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

Milk
Vinegar
Egg
Melted butter

Let this mixture sit for a minute to allow the vinegar to slightly curdle the milk—this mimics buttermilk and adds tenderness to the bread.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined (don’t overmix!).
Fold in the grated zucchini and shredded cheddar.

Step 5: Bake!

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve with Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower – The perfect roasted veggie side dish!
Soups & Stews – Serve with tomato soup, potato soup, or chili.
Salads – A great side for a fresh garden or Caesar salad.
Breakfast – Toast a slice and top it with avocado or a fried egg.
Snacks – Enjoy with butter, cream cheese, or even hummus!

Tips for the Best Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
Drain the zucchini – Too much moisture can make the bread dense. Lightly squeeze out the excess liquid before adding it.
Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Let it cool before slicing – This prevents it from falling apart.

How to Store Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

At Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
In the Refrigerator – Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezing – Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature or toast slices for a quick snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! This bread stores well, so you can make it a day or two in advance and reheat slices as needed.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding grated carrots or finely chopped spinach for extra nutrients.

Final Thoughts

This Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is a simple yet delicious way to turn fresh zucchini into a cheesy, flavorful treat. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter, alongside a cozy bowl of soup, or as a grab-and-go snack, this bread is a must-try for any home baker.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and share your photos on Pinterest. Happy baking! 🧡

More Delicious Recipes to Try

Oatmeal Apple and Carrot Cookies – A healthy and delicious snack.
Cinnamon Donut Bread – Sweet, cinnamon-packed perfection in a loaf.
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower – A crunchy, flavorful side dish.