Keto Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread
This savory and satisfying zucchini bread is packed with flavorful bacon and cheddar cheese, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a side dish. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, fitting seamlessly into a ketogenic lifestyle.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup zucchini, shredded and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped and cooled
- 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (200 g) almond flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for better texture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Shred the zucchini using a box grater.
- Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
- Add Zucchini, Bacon, and Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded zucchini, chopped bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese into the wet mixture until evenly distributed.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, xanthan gum (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The batter will be thick.
- Transfer to Loaf Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Cut into 12 slices and serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 235 kcal
- Total Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 62 mg
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Net Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Tips
- Zucchini Moisture: Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial to prevent the bread from becoming too dense or wet. Take your time with this step.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with other types like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Bacon: For extra crispiness, cook the bacon until it’s well-crisped before adding it to the batter.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Fresh herbs can also be used; just double the quantity compared to dried herbs.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to regain the freshly-baked texture.
Benefits
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: With only 3 g net carbs per slice, this bread is perfect for maintaining ketosis while enjoying a hearty, bread-like treat.
- High in Healthy Fats and Protein: Provides sustained energy and supports muscle maintenance, essential for those following a ketogenic diet.
- Nutrient-Rich: Zucchini adds vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
- Gluten-Free: Using almond and coconut flours makes this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Satiating and Versatile: Makes for a filling snack, breakfast option, or accompaniment to meals, keeping you satisfied longer and reducing unnecessary snacking.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible even for beginner cooks.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Keto Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread! It’s a delightful way to indulge in comfort food without compromising your low-carb lifestyle. 🥓🧀🍞
Let me know if you need any other keto recipes or have any questions!