This delightful Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is a warm, fluffy treat that’s packed with cheesy goodness and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a tasty snack!
Imagine the smell of baking bread filling your kitchen—it’s heavenly! I love enjoying it warm with a pat of butter. Trust me, you’ll want to share, but it might disappear fast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the bread. You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour if needed. Just make sure to check the gluten-free flour’s baking needs!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp flavor, but you could use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even feta for a fun change. Just remember that cheese can change the texture a bit.
Squash: I recommend using butternut squash for its rich flavor, but zucchini works well too. If you’re short on time, canned pumpkin can be a quick substitute, just adjust the liquid in the recipe.
Herbs: Dried thyme adds a warm flavor; however, fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten it up. Feel free to experiment with whatever fresh herbs you enjoy for a twist!
How Do I Ensure My Bread is Light and Fluffy?
Getting the perfect texture can be tricky, but it’s all about mixing! Here are some tips:
- Mix dry ingredients well before adding wet ones. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
- When combining wet and dry, stir gently just until mixed. Overmixing can make your bread tough.
- Be sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; old leavening agents won’t help the bread rise.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing; this helps it set and keeps it from crumbling.
Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a mix of herbs like rosemary and oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated or pureed cooked squash (such as butternut or zucchini)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for extra herb flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 50-60 minutes for baking, making a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Don’t forget to let it cool for a bit after baking—this is key for the best texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, ensuring the bread won’t stick when it’s baked.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, dried thyme, and black pepper. This is where the flavors start to come together!
3. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely coated with the flour mixture. This little step helps prevent the cheese from sinking while baking.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the vegetable oil (or melted butter), milk, honey (if you like a dash of sweetness), and the squash. Mix everything until it’s well combined and smooth.
5. Mix it All Together:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix, or your bread might turn out tough!
6. Fold in Fresh Herbs:
If you’re using fresh parsley or chives, now’s the time to fold them into the batter for extra flavor.
7. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, until you can insert a toothpick into the center and it comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After cooling, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
This savory bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or just a bit of butter on its own. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ – Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Use Any Type of Squash?
Absolutely! Butternut squash is a great option for its sweetness and texture. You can also use zucchini; just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture if using fresh zucchini to avoid a soggy bread.
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months!
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes, you can! While cheddar adds a nice flavor, feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even feta for a different taste profile. Just remember that it may change the texture slightly.
How Do I Know When the Bread is Done Baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. If it’s wet, give it an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
