Zucchini Bread

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

March 9, 2025

Zucchini bread is one of those magical treats that can transform an ordinary day into a cozy celebration. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this lovely quick bread has a way of warming the heart. Imagine the earthy flavor of fresh zucchini blending beautifully with the sweet notes from sugar and warm spices. It’s like a big hug in loaf form! Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up that extra zucchini from your garden or the farmer’s market. Different variations make it versatile, whether you prefer chocolate chips, nuts, or even a few raisins thrown in for good measure. So grab that grater, preheat your oven, and let’s embark on this zucchini-filled adventure that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Jump to:

What is Zucchini Bread

Zucchini bread is a delightful quick bread made primarily with grated zucchini. It offers a moist and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day. This bread often incorporates a variety of spices, sugars, and optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, making it both versatile and satisfying. You’ll find that the zucchini not only contributes moisture but also enhances its nutritional profile. Trust me; it’s a fantastic way to enjoy more veggies while savoring each delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bread

This zucchini bread is not just a fantastic way to utilize summer’s abundant zucchini. It blends warm spices and sweetness for a comforting flavor explosion. The balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and the doughy goodness creates a loaf that is a staple in many households. Its moist texture, thanks in part to the addition of applesauce, results in an irresistible bake that can quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a sweet treat after dinner. No matter when you choose to indulge, this zucchini bread will surely bring joy to your table.

Ingredients for Zucchini Bread

To whip up your own delicious zucchini bread, you will need the following ingredients:

1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce or sour cream/Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 cups (180g) shredded zucchini (no need to blot)
Optional: 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped nuts, raisins, etc.

With all these ingredients ready, you’re well on your way to creating something truly scrumptious!

Preparing the Zucchini Bread Batter

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step is crucial to prevent any sticky situations later, so set it aside for later use.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, grab a large bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until thoroughly combined. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are well mixed, contributing to an even rise and spice distribution. Set this mixture aside; it’ll come together shortly.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Blend everything until you see a smooth consistency. Then, it’s time to fold in your shredded zucchini. This step distributes the zucchini evenly throughout the batter, which is essential for that deliciously moist texture.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now for the fun part—pour the zucchini mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Gently stir or whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing could lead to a tougher texture, so a gentle hand is key. If you decided to add chocolate chips or any other extra goodies, now’s the time to fold those in lightly.

Bake the Zucchini Bread

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Here’s where you can set your timer for 55-70 minutes. To ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean; just a few crumbs are perfectly acceptable.

Cool and Slice

After taking it out of the oven, let the bread cool in the pan for about an hour. If you want neat slices, allow the loaf to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. This waiting period might be the toughest part, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Serving Suggestions

When serving your zucchini bread, you can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. A spread of cream cheese or butter complements the flavors wonderfully. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal afternoon treat or casual gathering snack.

Tips for Success

Temperature Matters: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. This ensures a better blend and contributes to the moistness of your bread.
Keep an Eye on the Clock: Bake times can vary widely from oven to oven, so keep an eye on your zucchini bread as it nears the end of the baking time.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins! Replace chocolate chips with nuts, dried fruits, or even consider swapping out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Each variation has its unique charm.

Storage Tips

Any leftover zucchini bread can be stored in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this ensures you can enjoy your tasty creation well into the week!

FAQs

Can I freeze zucchini bread?

Absolutely! Zucchini bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re craving a slice, thaw it directly in the fridge before serving.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can easily substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour. Just remember that the texture might be a tad denser, but still delicious!

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out mostly clean, just with a few crumbs attached.

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Absolutely! Frozen zucchini works just fine. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to your batter.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped nuts make a fantastic addition. Just fold them in when you’re stirring in the optional add-ins.

This zucchini bread recipe is a wonderful way to savor the summer harvest while delighting your taste buds. It’s easy to make, versatile, and sure to be a hit among your family and friends. Enjoy every slice!

More Easy Desserts & Sweets Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

Zucchini Bread

What is Zucchini Bread

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bread

Ingredients for Zucchini Bread