This Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is a yummy treat! It’s moist, cheesy, and packed with flavor from fresh herbs and sweet squash. Perfect for any meal!
Baking this bread fills the house with a cozy smell that’ll make you smile. I love to enjoy a warm slice with butter—it’s so good, you might have to hide the second loaf! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of the bread. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds rich flavor. I prefer sharp cheddar for a stronger taste, but feel free to use mild cheddar or even a cheesy blend of mozzarella and gouda for a different twist.
Summer Squash: Zucchini and yellow squash work great here. If squash isn’t available, you can use pumpkin or sweet potato puree instead, but adjust the moisture slightly as needed.
Milk or Buttermilk: Both keep the bread moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Honey or Sugar: Honey adds a nice touch of sweetness. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, you can use a sugar substitute or just omit it for a savory loaf!
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Bread?
To achieve a perfect texture, the mixing method is crucial. Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients prevents overmixing, which can make the bread tough. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix dry ingredients thoroughly first to ensure even distribution.
- When combining wet and dry, use a spatula to fold and cut through the batter—don’t stir vigorously.
- A few lumps are okay; overmixing is what you want to avoid!
Also, make sure your squash is well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make the bread dense rather than fluffy.
How to Make Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1 cup cooked and mashed summer squash (zucchini or yellow squash), well drained
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- ¼ cup milk or buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing, so the texture sets beautifully. In total, you can expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
First things first, let’s get that oven warming up! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare your loaf pan by greasing it with butter or oil and dusting it with some flour, or just line it with parchment paper. This will help the bread come out easily later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, grab a whisk and mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, oregano, thyme, and basil. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed and ready for the next steps!
3. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese into the flour mixture and stir it around a bit until all the cheese is evenly coated with the flour. This helps prevent the cheese from sinking to the bottom of the bread while it bakes.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate medium bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Then mix in the cooked and drained mashed squash, your choice of oil or melted butter, milk (or buttermilk), honey (or sugar), and the optional minced garlic. Give it a good stir until everything is combined nicely!
5. Combine Wet and Dry:
Gently pour your wet squash mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, fold everything together just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
6. Pour and Smooth the Batter:
Transfer your batter to the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top and make sure it’s evenly spread.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the loaf pan into your preheated oven. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, stick a toothpick in the center and if it comes out clean, it’s ready to come out!
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully take it out of the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
This delicious bread can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s a perfect side for soups and salads, or simply enjoy it by itself, maybe with a little butter!
The combination of cheddar and herbs creates a delightful flavor that is complemented by the subtle sweetness of the squash. Happy baking!
FAQ for Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a unique flavor. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
What Kind of Squash Can I Use?
Summer squash like zucchini or yellow squash works perfectly for this recipe. You can also substitute with pumpkin or even sweet potato puree, but adjust the moisture content accordingly to ensure the right texture.
Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, the baked bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw it before serving!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Bread?
If you prefer a less sweet bread, feel free to reduce the amount of honey or sugar. You can also omit it entirely for a more savory loaf, which pairs wonderfully with soups and salads!
