Introduction: A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite

Zucchini bread is a beloved classic, known for its subtle sweetness and moist texture. However, for those on a Weight Watchers (WW) or low-carb lifestyle, a traditional zucchini bread recipe may not fit the bill. That’s where this WW Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread comes in—a savory, keto-friendly take on the classic that’s packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats, all while keeping the SmartPoints low.

This recipe combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with the rich, salty flavor of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a moist, flavorful bread perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a side dish for lunch or dinner. The best part is that it’s easy to make, and you can enjoy it guilt-free, whether you’re following the WW program or any other low-carb diet.

In this detailed recipe, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from choosing the right ingredients to preparing the bread. You’ll also get the full nutritional breakdown, including SmartPoints and tips for meal planning and customization. Let’s dive into this savory sensation that will make your taste buds rejoice!

Why Choose WW Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread?

This WW Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread is an excellent choice for several reasons:

  1. Savory & Satisfying: Unlike traditional sweet zucchini bread, this savory version is rich with the flavors of bacon and cheddar, making it perfect for those who prefer savory foods.
  2. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: With a minimal amount of carbs and no added sugar, this bread fits perfectly within a low-carb or keto diet, helping you stay on track with your weight loss or health goals.
  3. Packed with Protein: The addition of bacon and cheddar cheese provides a satisfying protein boost, while the zucchini keeps the bread moist without adding unnecessary carbs.
  4. Meal Prep Friendly: This bread stores well, so you can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it for a few days. It makes a great snack, breakfast option, or side dish.
  5. Easy to Customize: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding other ingredients like herbs, spices, or even different types of cheese to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups shredded) – Zucchini is the main ingredient in this bread, providing moisture and fiber without adding too many carbs. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini after shredding to avoid a soggy bread.
  • 6 slices cooked bacon (chopped) – Bacon adds a savory, crispy texture and a rich, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the cheddar. Feel free to use turkey bacon for a leaner option, but regular bacon is ideal for the best flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour – Almond flour is the base of this low-carb bread, providing a flour-like texture without the carbs of traditional flour. It’s gluten-free and an excellent source of healthy fats and protein.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild) – Cheddar cheese brings a rich, creamy texture and flavor to the bread. You can use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or mild cheddar for a more subtle taste.
  • 4 large eggs – Eggs provide structure to the bread and help bind the ingredients together, giving it a fluffy, moist texture. Eggs are also an excellent source of protein.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder – Baking powder is used to help the bread rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk – Almond milk keeps the bread moist without adding carbs. It also adds a mild, nutty flavor. If you prefer, you can use coconut milk or heavy cream, but almond milk keeps it light and low in calories.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Olive oil adds healthy fats and helps with the bread’s texture. It also enhances the flavor, making the bread rich and satisfying.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the bread, complementing the bacon and cheddar.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to balance the sharpness of the cheddar.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – A pinch of salt and pepper brings out the flavors in the bread. Adjust according to your personal taste preference.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by preparing the zucchini:

  1. Shred the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. You will need about 2 cups of shredded zucchini for this recipe.
  2. After shredding, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Next, cook the bacon:

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy (about 5-7 minutes). You can also use a microwave or oven, but cooking it in a skillet will give it a crispy texture that’s perfect for this bread.
  2. Once cooked, drain the bacon on a paper towel to remove excess grease. Chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

Now it’s time to assemble the bread:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, and olive oil until fully combined. Add the shredded zucchini and cooked bacon to the wet ingredients, stirring to combine.
  4. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth batter forms. Be sure not to overmix, as that can affect the texture of the bread.
  5. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
  2. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
  3. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once the bread has cooled, slice it into 8-10 pieces, depending on how thick you prefer your slices. Serve it on its own as a snack or side dish, or enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or avocado for added richness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Here’s the breakdown of the nutritional content for each slice:

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 17g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Net Carbs: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Potassium: 250mg
  • Vitamin A: 8% DV
  • Vitamin C: 10% DV
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

WW SmartPoints (Per Serving)

This recipe is perfect for anyone following the WW program, offering a savory snack or meal option that won’t break the SmartPoints bank:

  • Green Plan: 5 SmartPoints per serving
  • Blue Plan: 4 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple Plan: 4 SmartPoints per serving

Tips for Success

  1. Squeeze Zucchini Well: Make sure to squeeze out all the excess moisture from the shredded zucchini. If you skip this step, the bread may become too moist and dense.
  2. Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is best for this recipe as it has more moisture and flavor. Avoid using old, wrinkled zucchinis.
  3. Crispy Bacon: For the best texture, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This will give the bread a crunchy texture and enhance the flavor.
  4. Storage Tips: This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months for a convenient, grab-and-go snack.
  5. Make It Spicier: For a kick of heat, try adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the batter. This will give the bread an extra layer of flavor.
  6. Herb Variations: Add some fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a more herby flavor profile. This will pair well with the bacon and cheddar.

Conclusion: A Savory, Satisfying Low-Carb Bread

This WW Bacon and Cheddar Zucchini Bread is an incredible savory alternative to traditional breads and muffins. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and plenty of flavor, it’s an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, pairing it with a meal, or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.

With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable options, this bread offers the best of both worlds: a delicious, satisfying treat without the guilt. Make it today and enjoy a slice of savory goodness!