Got some extra zucchini and wondering how to use it? Try this Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread for a savory twist on traditional zucchini bread. It blends the crispy, smoky taste of bacon with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a moist, tender zucchini base. Ideal for a snack, a side, or even breakfast, this bread boasts a flavorful profile that combines savory and mildly sweet notes. It’s a versatile and delicious option that’s sure to impress at any meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) oil
- 1 cup zucchini, washed and shredded (about half of a medium zucchini)
- 1 cup (200 g) cooked and drained chopped bacon (cooled)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded Cheddar cheese
- 6 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a loaf pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels and let it cool.
- Wash and shred the zucchini, and set it aside.
- Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture if the zucchini is too wet.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they become slightly frothy.
- Add the sugar and continue to beat until combined.
- Gradually add the oil and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded zucchini, chopped bacon, and grated cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Make the Batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Bake the Bread:
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, leveling the surface with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Move the bread to a wire rack to cool thoroughly.
- Cut into slices and enjoy the bread warm or at room temperature.
- It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of butter or alongside a hearty soup or salad.
Conclusion:
This Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread is a savory, satisfying twist on traditional zucchini bread, perfect for those who love a flavorful, cheesy treat. The crispy bacon and sharp cheddar add a rich, comforting taste, while the zucchini keeps the bread moist and tender. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a side dish, or a meal on its own, this bread is sure to become a favorite. It’s an excellent way to use up garden zucchini and enjoy a delicious homemade treat that everyone will love.