This Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is a warm and cozy treat! Packed with tasty cheese and a hint of fresh herbs, it’s perfect for any meal or snack time.
Making this bread is so much fun! I love the smell of herbs filling the kitchen. And let’s be honest, who can resist gooey cheddar? It’s a sure hit at every gathering! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Winter Squash: You’ll need cooked and mashed squash for this recipe. While butternut squash is my favorite for its sweetness, you could also use acorn squash or even pumpkin. If you’re in a pinch, store-bought squash puree works well, too!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is the star here! I often use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but mild cheddar can also be great if you prefer something less intense. For a twist, try adding some pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Fresh Herbs: Using dried thyme and rosemary is convenient, but fresh herbs really amp up the flavor! If you have them on hand, use about a tablespoon instead of a teaspoon for fresh herbs. If you need to substitute, oregano works well in a pinch.
Buttermilk: This ingredient adds moisture and helps with leavening. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a little vinegar or lemon juice to milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
How Do I Achieve a Moist and Tender Bread?
Getting a moist and tender loaf can sometimes be tricky, but a few steps can help you succeed! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Don’t overmix the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until everything is incorporated for the best texture.
- Make sure your squash is well-cooked and mashed smoothly. Lumps can create uneven textures in the bread.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially for eggs and baking powder, for the best rise and flavor in your bread.
With these tips, your Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread will be tasty and satisfying every time!
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 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1 cup cooked and mashed winter squash (such as butternut or acorn squash)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tsp vinegar added)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50-60 minutes to bake. Allow some additional time for cooling before slicing. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this delicious bread in about an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, dried thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are well combined.
3. Add Cheese:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the flour mixture. This keeps the cheese from sinking to the bottom while baking, ensuring a cheesy bite in every slice!
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the mashed squash, eggs, oil (or melted butter), honey (or maple syrup), and buttermilk. Mix everything well until it’s completely combined. You’ll want it to be nice and smooth!
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your bread tender and fluffy.
6. Pour into the Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to make it neat.
7. Bake:
Now, pop your pan into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool:
Once baked, remove the bread 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 before slicing.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice your delicious bread and serve it plain or with a spread of butter or cream cheese. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as an accompaniment to your favorite soup!
Enjoy your warm, savory Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread! 🍞🧀
FAQ for Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Can I Substitute the Winter Squash?
Yes! While butternut and acorn squash work best, you can also use pumpkin puree or even sweet potato as a substitute. Just make sure any squash or puree you use is well-cooked and smooth.
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it sliced, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen!
Can I Use Different Herbs or Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to change the herbs to your liking; fresh parsley or basil would be great. For cheese, you can try using Monterey jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well!
