Yellow squash bread is a quick bread made with grated fresh yellow squash. Similar to zucchini bread recipe favorites, this bread uses the natural moisture from squash to create an incredibly tender texture. The yellow squash adds subtle flavor while keeping the bread moist for days.
Unlike traditional bread that requires yeast, this bread uses baking powder or baking soda for rise. This makes it quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy home bakers who want fresh bread without the wait.
Recipe
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serving Size: 12 slices
Calories per Slice: 185 calories
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated yellow squash (about 2 medium squash)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
Equipment Needed
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Box grater or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust with flour. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Yellow Squash
Wash and trim the ends of your yellow squash. Using a box grater or food processor, finely grate the squash. You should have approximately 1 1/2 cups of grated squash. Place the grated squash in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the grated yellow squash, applesauce, vanilla extract, and milk until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Create the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bread. If using nuts, chocolate chips, or seeds, fold them in now.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Yellow Squash Bread
Moisture Control: Always squeeze excess water from grated squash to prevent soggy bread.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Stir ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
Storage: Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap. It stays fresh at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when wrapped properly.
Nutritional value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 185
- Total Fat: 7.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2g
- Cholesterol: 31mg
- Sodium: 195mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28.5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1.8g
- Sugars: 12.8g
- Protein: 3.2g
- Vitamin A: 8% DV
- Vitamin C: 12% DV
- Potassium: 165mg
Health Benefits of Yellow Squash Bread
Yellow squash adds remarkable nutritional value to this delicious bread. Rich in vitamins A and C, yellow squash supports immune function and eye health. The vegetable also provides dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants while keeping the bread incredibly moist without excess butter or oil.
Recipe Variations
Yellow Squash Bread with Walnuts
Add 1 cup chopped walnuts to the basic recipe for extra crunch and protein. The nuts pair beautifully with the mild squash flavor.
Yellow Squash Bread with Chocolate Chips
Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips for a dessert-like treat. Kids especially love this sweet variation.
Yellow Squash Lemon Bread
Add zest of 2 lemons and 2 tablespoons lemon juice for a bright, citrusy twist that’s perfect for spring.
Yellow Squash Bread with Butter
For richer flavor, replace half the oil with melted butter. This creates a more tender crumb and buttery taste.
Savory Squash Bread
Skip the sugar and add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. Include cheese for a delicious side bar.
Gluten-Free Yellow Squash Bread
Making its gluten-free version is simple with the right flour blend:
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (if not in flour blend)
Follow the same method as regular recipe, but add an extra 10-15 minutes baking time. The texture will be slightly denser but equally delicious.
Healthy Yellow Squash Bread Options
Reducing Sugar
Cut sugar to 1 1/2 cups and add 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce for moisture.
Oil Alternatives
Replace oil with Greek yogurt or mashed banana for lower fat content.
Whole Grain Options
Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Storage and Serving Tips
This yellow squash bread is delicious served warm with butter, cream cheese, or honey. It makes an excellent breakfast bread, afternoon snack, or dessert. The flavors actually improve after the first day, making it perfect for meal prep or gift-giving.
Store at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness. Individual slices can be toasted for a warm, comforting treat.
Why This Yellow Squash Bread Recipe Works
This recipe balances moisture from the yellow squash with just the right amount of spices and sweetness. The combination of oil and applesauce creates the perfect texture while keeping calories reasonable. The addition of warming spices complements the mild squash flavor beautifully, creating a bread that’s both nutritious and indulgent.
Perfect for using up abundant summer squash from your garden or local farmers market, this bread transforms a simple vegetable into a bakery-quality treat your whole family will love.
Comparing to Other Squash Breads
While butternut squash bread has a nuttier, sweeter flavor, yellow squash bread offers a milder taste that works well in both sweet and savory applications. Yellow squash has higher water content than butternut squash, creating moister bread. you can also serve it with liquid marijuana drink.
FAQs
Can I use frozen yellow squash for bread?
Yes, but thaw completely and drain excess water before using. Frozen squash may make the bread slightly more dense.
How do I know when yellow squash bread is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with just a few moist crumbs. The internal temperature should reach 200°F.
Can I make yellow squash bread in muffin form?
Absolutely! Use muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. This creates perfect individual portions.
Why is my yellow squash bread soggy?
Too much moisture from the squash. Next time, grate the squash and let it drain for 30 minutes, then squeeze out excess water with paper towels.
How long does homemade yellow squash bread last?
Properly stored bread lasts 3-4 days at room temperature, 1 week refrigerated, or 3 months frozen.
Can I substitute yellow squash for zucchini in bread recipes?
Yes, they work interchangeably in most recipes. Yellow squash may add slightly more moisture.
What’s the best way to grate yellow squash for bread?
Use the large holes of a box grater or food processor. Remove seeds from very large squash before grating.
Can I add other vegetables to yellow squash bread?
Yes, try mixing with grated carrots, zucchini, or even sweet potato for unique flavor combinations.
