This Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is warm, fluffy, and packed with flavor. You’ll love the mix of cheesy goodness and fresh herbs along with the sweet notes of squash!
Making this bread is a fun way to sneak in some veggies, and it fills your kitchen with an irresistible smell. I can’t wait to spread some butter on a warm slice; it’s such a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of this bread, giving it structure. You can substitute it with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or a gluten-free blend if you need that option.
Dried Herbs: Thyme and oregano are classic choices but feel free to mix it up! Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be used. Just double the amount, as fresh herbs have a lighter flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor to the bread. If you want something milder, go for mild cheddar or even mozzarella for a stretchier texture. Vegan cheese alternatives work too!
Yellow Squash: This adds moisture and a subtle sweetness. If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini is a perfect substitute; just make sure to squeeze out extra moisture before adding.
How Do You Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Without Overmixing?
Mixing wet and dry ingredients can be tricky, but it’s crucial for fluffy bread. The key is to mix just until you see no dry flour. Here’s how:
- Combine dry ingredients in one bowl and wet in another.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
- Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture together. Keep turning and folding without vigorous mixing.
- Once everything is combined but still a bit lumpy, stop! This will prevent tough bread.
Remember, a little bit of flour showing is okay! Your bread will be light and tender.
What’s the Best Way to Incorporate Shredded Squash?
Adding shredded squash is simple, but you want to do it right:
- Make sure squash is well shredded – use a box grater.
- If it’s watery, give it a gentle squeeze in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Fold the squash in gently at the end with a rubber spatula, ensuring an even mix throughout the batter.
This will result in a beautifully moist loaf without clumping of squash!
Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded yellow squash (about 1 medium squash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake. In total, you should expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, plus an additional 10 minutes of cooling time before slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is heating, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will help your bread come out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, dried herbs, garlic powder (if using), and freshly ground black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together evenly. This ensures that the leavening agents are well distributed.
3. Add the Cheese:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry mixture. Mix gently, so the cheese is evenly coated with the flour mixture.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are slightly frothy. Add the olive oil (or melted butter) and buttermilk, mixing well. It’s important that your wet ingredients are well incorporated to achieve a nice, fluffy bread.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour your wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay! This ensures your bread remains light and fluffy.
6. Fold in the Squash:
Gently fold in the shredded yellow squash to the batter. This will add moisture and sweetness to your bread. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter but avoid overmixing!
7. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when your bread is ready.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it up and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious cheesy, herby squash bread as a tasty snack or a delightful addition to any meal!
FAQs About Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly based on the cheese you choose.
How Can I Store Leftover Bread?
Store leftover Cheesy Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Substitute the Yellow Squash?
Yes! Zucchini is a wonderful substitute for yellow squash. Just shred it as you would with yellow squash, and make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent a soggy bread.
What Should I Serve This Bread With?
This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a side with grilled meats. You can also enjoy it on its own spread with butter or your favorite jam for an extra treat!
