Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab
The Zucchini Cheese Muffin Slab is a moist, savory baked snack combining fresh grated zucchini with rich, melty cheese for a flavorful, tender slab perfect for slicing and sharing. Ideal for a wholesome snack, brunch addition, or party finger food, it balances nutrition and indulgence with simple ingredients and easy preparation.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 1 to 1½ cups fresh grated zucchini (well-drained)
Cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar or gouda cheese, grated
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme or parsley
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup olive oil or melted butter
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free option)
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped jalapeños or ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper for spice
- Fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or dill to taste
- Additional veggies: ½ cup shredded carrots or corn kernels
- Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchini finely. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to prevent sogginess and ensure the slab stays firm.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil (or melted butter), and milk (or buttermilk) until fully combined. This creates a smooth base.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices to evenly distribute the raising agents and seasonings.
- Incorporate zucchini and cheese: Fold the well-drained zucchini and grated cheese into the wet mixture, then gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender crumb.
- Bake the slab: Pour the batter into a lightly greased rectangular baking pan or slab mold, smoothing the top evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top turns golden brown.
- Cool and slice: Let the muffin slab cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes to set the texture, which helps in slicing neat squares or rectangles without crumbling.
Notes
- Drain the zucchini well to prevent sogginess.
- Mix the batter just until combined to maintain a tender and light texture.
- Use sharp cheese for a more flavorful, rich taste without extra salt.
- Allow the slab to cool completely before slicing for best results.
- Experiment with fresh herbs to boost savory flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming 12 slices per slab)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: zucchini, cheese muffin, savory snack, healthy snack, gluten free, easy baking, cheesy zucchini, brunch, appetizer