summer squash bread recipe

summer squash bread recipe

The Best summer squash bread recipe

I’m so excited to share this summer squash bread recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. There’s something about the combination of the tender summer squash and the sweet, buttery bread that just makes my heart happy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up all those zucchinis and yellow crooknecks that are taking over your garden (just like mine!)

I first discovered this recipe on a cooking blog, and I was immediately drawn to its simplicity and the fact that it uses up some of the excess produce from our garden. The original recipe called for a few tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs, which I omitted because my kids aren’t too fond of them. But feel free to add them in if you’re a fan! The result is a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or even as a side dish for dinner.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Just mix together some flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and warm water, then add in your diced summer squash and let the dough rise. Once it’s all combined and smooth, shape it into a loaf and let it bake until it’s golden brown.

That’s it! No fuss, no muss. My kids love helping me with this part – they get to shape the dough into whatever form they like (usually something resembling a animal). And when we slice into it after it’s cooled…

well, let’s just say it’s worth waiting for. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Summer squash bread is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or just enjoying it as a quick snack after dinner, this bread is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your life.

Summer Squash Bread

Summer Squash Bread

4.9 from 1155 votes

A moist and tender quick bread made with shredded summer squash, perfect for using up extra garden produce. This subtly spiced loaf has a tender crumb and a delicate sweetness.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time55 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 290 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bread

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups shredded summer squash (about 1 medium), squeezed dry

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
4Set this dry mixture aside.
5In a large bowl, whisk the sugar and oil together until smooth.
6Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
7Fold the shredded summer squash into the wet ingredients until evenly distributed.
8The mixture will be thick and slightly lumpy.
9Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding with a rubber spatula until just combined.
10Do not overmix; a few streaks of flour are fine.
11Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
12Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
13Let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
14Then lift it out using the parchment overhang and cool completely on the rack before slicing.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Rubber spatula
9×5 inch loaf pan
Parchment paper
Cooling rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 290 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 280mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Squeeze the shredded squash well to remove excess moisture, or the bread may be too wet. This bread keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Summer Squash Bread Works

I always love serving this summer squash bread at family gatherings – there’s just something special about cutting into that perfectly baked loaf after dinner. And don’t even get me started on how delicious it is when reheated – simply slice off whatever portion you want and toast until crispy in your toaster oven (or conventional oven).

As for storage ideas… well, let’s just say I’ve got plenty of experience keeping leftover loaves around for days on end (even weeks sometimes!)

Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before storing at room temperature until ready to serve again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Squash Bread

Q: What type of summer squash is best for this recipe?

A: You can use any type of summer squash you like – zucchini, yellow crookneck, or even pattypan will all work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to remove any seeds or excess moisture from the squash before chopping it up for the dough.

Q: Can I substitute other types of vegetables in place of the summer squash?

A: While summer squash is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other types of vegetables if you like – carrots or sweet potatoes would both work well here. Just keep in mind that their flavors will change the overall character of the bread slightly.

Q: How long does the dough need to rise?

A: This will depend on your kitchen temperature and environment – typically between 1-2 hours should do the trick. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the rising process by placing the dough in a warm spot (like near an oven) or by using rapid rise yeast.

Q: Can I make this bread without yeast?

A: Yes – while traditional yeast gives this bread its characteristic lightness and texture, you can omit it altogether if you prefer a denser loaf. Simply omit the yeast from the ingredients list and proceed with mixing together everything else as usual.

Q: Can I freeze this bread for later?

A: Absolutely – simply wrap cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

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