Courgette bread is a savory twist on classic quick gluten free bread recipes, offering a delightful blend of flavor and texture. The natural moisture from grated courgettes keeps the bread soft and tender, while their mild flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of add-ins like herbs, spices, or cheese. This versatile bread can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even a light breakfast.
Jump to:
- Benefits of Gluten Free Courgette Bread
- Key Ingredients in Gluten Free Courgette Bread
- Let’s Bake It! Step-by-Step Recipe
- Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Courgette Bread
- Variations of Gluten Free Courgette Bread
- How to Store Gluten Free Courgette Bread
- FAQs About Gluten Free Courgette Bread
- Wrapping It Up: Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Why Choose Gluten Free Courgette Bread?
For those who follow a gluten free diet, finding a bread that’s moist and flavorful can be a challenge. This gluten free courgette bread not only checks all the boxes but also brings an added health boost with its nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether you’re gluten intolerant or simply looking for a wholesome bread option, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire.
If you’re looking for more gluten-free bread options, check out our Gluten Free Bread Recipe: Soft, Delicious, and Easy to Make for another wholesome and delicious idea
Benefits of Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Health Benefits of Courgettes and Gluten Free Baking
Courgettes, also known as zucchini, are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, making them a fantastic addition to any diet. Their high water content keeps baked goods moist while adding minimal calories. Pairing courgettes with gluten free baking creates a wholesome loaf that’s easy to digest and perfect for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Perfect for Gluten-Intolerant Individuals
Store-bought gluten free bread often lacks the softness and flavor that homemade recipes deliver. By baking gluten free courgette bread at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring no cross-contamination while tailoring the recipe to suit your taste. This bread is a great way to enjoy a savory, satisfying option without compromising on quality.
For breakfast inspiration, pair your courgette bread with ideas from our What can I eat for breakfast if I can't eat eggs or gluten?.
Key Ingredients in Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Gluten Free Flours That Work Best
The choice of flour is key in gluten free baking. Here are some excellent options:
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Pre-mixed with xanthan gum, this flour offers structure and consistency.
- Almond Flour: Adds richness and a slightly nutty flavor. It’s excellent for moisture retention.
- Oat Flour: A hearty, slightly sweet option that works well for savory breads.
- Coconut Flour: Use sparingly due to its high absorbency. It’s best combined with other flours for balance.
Courgettes: The Secret to Moisture and Flavor
Grated courgettes are the star of this recipe. They not only provide natural moisture but also blend seamlessly into the bread, leaving no overpowering vegetable taste. Be sure to pat the grated courgettes dry with a paper towel to remove excess water before mixing them into the batter.
Optional Add-Ins Like Herbs and Cheese
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile of the bread.
- Cheese: Fold in shredded Parmesan or sharp cheddar for a savory twist.
- Seeds: Add sunflower seeds or chia seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Let’s Bake It! Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients List
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 medium courgettes, grated (about 1 ½ cups)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegans)
- ½ cup olive oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- ¼ cup unsweetened yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or chia seeds for texture
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil
Preparing the Batter
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. - Prepare the Courgettes:
Grate the courgettes using a box grater. Place them in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and gently squeeze out the excess moisture. Set aside. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. - Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Stir in the olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and grated courgettes until well combined. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. If using cheese, herbs, or seeds, fold them in at this stage.
Baking Instructions for the Perfect Loaf
- Transfer to the Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle with extra seeds or herbs if desired. - Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Want to expand your gluten-free recipe collection? Don’t miss our Gluten-Free Bread Explained: Types, Benefits, and Baking Tips.
Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Achieving the Right Texture
- Don’t Skip the Squeeze:
Courgettes have a high water content, so it’s important to squeeze out the excess moisture after grating them. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy and ensure the right texture. - Use the Right Flour Blend:
Opt for a gluten free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum to give the bread structure. If your flour blend doesn’t contain these ingredients, add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of flour for optimal results. - Rest the Batter:
Let the batter sit for 5–10 minutes before baking to allow the flour to fully hydrate. This helps improve the texture of the bread and results in a more even crumb.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking:
Keep a close eye on your bread during the last few minutes of baking. Gluten free bread tends to dry out if overbaked, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. - Under-measuring Flour:
Gluten free flours can vary in density, so be sure to measure your flour properly. For the most accurate results, use a kitchen scale. Alternatively, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. - Overmixing the Batter:
Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, crumbly bread. Stir gently to keep the texture light and airy.
Extra Tips for Flavor
- Add Extra Flavor with Herbs or Spices:
Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the batter for a more savory bread. Garlic powder or onion powder also adds a nice touch. - Add a Cheese Twist:
For a cheesy version, mix in grated Parmesan or cheddar. The cheese will melt into the bread, adding both flavor and moisture.
Variations of Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
- Vegan Option:
- Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, mixed and rested for 5 minutes).
- Use a plant-based yogurt alternative like almond or coconut yogurt.
- Dairy-Free:
- Swap out the yogurt for a dairy-free option, and replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free twist.
Adding Herbs, Spices, or Seeds for Extra Flavor
- Herb-Infused Bread:
Add 1–2 tablespoons of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of fresh flavor. - Spiced Bread:
Include a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a slightly spiced kick that pairs beautifully with soups and stews. - Seeds for Texture:
Mix in 2 tablespoons of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or poppy seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Sprinkle extra seeds on top for an appealing finish.
Sweet Courgette Bread Variations
- Banana-Courgette Bread:
Add 1 mashed ripe banana to the batter for a sweeter, denser loaf. This variation works well with a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. - Honey-Courgette Bread:
Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to create a slightly sweet loaf that pairs well with cream cheese or butter. - Fruit-Studded Bread:
Fold in ½ cup of dried fruit, such as raisins or chopped apricots, for bursts of sweetness in each bite.
Serve your courgette bread with a comforting side like our Gluten Free Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible for a complete meal.
How to Store Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Storing for Freshness
- Room Temperature:
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, place a piece of parchment paper or a paper towel inside the container. - Refrigeration:
For longer storage, refrigerate the bread. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Refrigerated courgette bread will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing and Reheating Tips
- Freezing the Bread:
- Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
- Slice the loaf into individual portions, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Frozen Bread:
- Microwave: Unwrap a frozen slice and microwave for 20–30 seconds until warm.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and warm it for 10–12 minutes to restore freshness.
- Freezing the Batter:
- If you prefer to bake fresh bread later, freeze the batter in a greased loaf pan. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before placing it in the oven.
FAQs About Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Can I Use Almond or Oat Flour Instead of Gluten Free All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can!
- Almond Flour: Adds a moist, nutty flavor and works well when combined with other flours. Replace up to 50% of the gluten-free all-purpose flour with almond flour for best results.
- Oat Flour: Provides a hearty texture and mild sweetness. You can replace up to half the flour with oat flour but may need to adjust the liquid content slightly.
How Do I Keep the Bread Moist?
- Use Fresh Courgettes:
Ensure your courgettes are fresh and grate them finely to retain their natural moisture. - Don’t Overbake:
Check the bread a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Gluten free bread can dry out quickly if overbaked. - Store Properly:
Wrap the bread tightly or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make It Sugar-Free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally low in sugar, but you can eliminate sweeteners entirely if desired. Alternatively, use a natural sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a sugar-free version.
Can I Replace the Courgettes with Another Vegetable?
Yes, you can substitute courgettes with other vegetables like grated carrots, sweet potatoes, or even pumpkin puree. Keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
How Do I Prevent Gluten Free Bread from Crumbling?
- Use Xanthan Gum or Guar Gum:
These binders help give structure to gluten free bread and prevent crumbling. If your flour blend doesn’t include xanthan gum, add ½ teaspoon per cup of flour. - Let the Bread Cool Completely:
Cutting the bread while it’s still warm can cause it to crumble. Always let it cool fully on a wire rack before slicing.
Wrapping It Up: Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Courgette Bread
Gluten free courgette bread is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Its moist texture, savory flavor, and nutrient-packed ingredients make it a standout option for anyone seeking a wholesome gluten free alternative. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, enjoying it as a quick snack, or sharing it at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
What makes this courgette bread truly special is how customizable it is. From adding herbs and spices to incorporating cheese or seeds, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. Plus, it’s easy to store and even easier to enjoy—whether fresh out of the oven or reheated from the freezer.
Try this gluten free courgette bread today and experience how a simple loaf can elevate your gluten free baking game. Once you’ve tasted it, it’s sure to become a household favorite!
Leave a Reply