Zucchini Bread

Recipe By:
jesseca
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Zucchini bread is one of those comfort foods that feels like a warm hug. If you’ve ever walked through a farmer’s market in the summer, you know how abundant zucchini can be. It’s a versatile veggie that not only makes a great side dish but also adds moisture and sweetness to baked goods. This Zucchini Bread Recipe I’m sharing is a blend of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. It’s sweetened just right, spiced perfectly, and the best part? You won’t even realize you’re eating veggies! Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this bread is wonderfully forgiving—perfect for bakers of all skill levels. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe!

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Why This Recipe Works

Zucchini bread’s magic lies in its ingredients. The moisture from grated zucchini is crucial; it helps the bread stay soft and tender. Also, zucchini has a very mild flavor, which allows other ingredients, like spices, to shine. Speaking of spices, they bring a warmth and depth of flavor that turn this quick bread into a delight. Ground cinnamon is often the star here, but other spices can join the party too.

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bread Recipe

This recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and spices. The natural sweetness of the zucchini perfectly complements the sugar, while cinnamon and vanilla elevate the flavor. Plus, the wholesome ingredients help you feel good about eating it. It’s versatile, too! You can serve it for breakfast, enjoy it as an afternoon snack, or even consider it a dessert. With endless possibilities, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand.

Zucchini Bread

Ingredients for Zucchini Bread Recipe

To make this delicious zucchini bread, gather these ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (or substitute with gluten-free flour)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup extra light olive oil (or canola or vegetable oil)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated zucchini (from about 1 lb or 2 medium zucchinis)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Now that you have everything laid out, it’s time to get baking!

Preparing Your Zucchini Bread

Zucchini Bread

Prepare the Pans

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, grab two 8×4-inch metal loaf pans. Butter them well and line them with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step helps ensure that your bread slides out without sticking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

Next, take a medium-sized mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until nicely combined. This blending of dry ingredients helps ensure that the leavening agents and spices distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well blended. Then, add in the olive oil, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth. This step is where the magic starts to happen.

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add that bowl of dry ingredients into the bowl of wet. Whisk gently until just combined and make sure there are no lumps left. It’s important not to overmix; you want a tender crumb, not tough bread!

Prepare the Zucchini

Now, grab your box grater and use the large holes to grate the zucchini. Once done, fold the grated zucchini into your batter along with any nuts, if you’re using them. This folding action helps keep the batter light and fluffy.

Bake the Bread

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Now, it’s time to pop them into the oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, but keep an eye on them. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, without any batter clinging to it.

Cool the Bread

Once you’ve pulled the loaves from the oven, allow them to cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes. After that, carefully remove the loaves and transfer them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before slicing. This step allows the flavors to settle and makes sure the bread holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your zucchini bread, there are countless ways to serve it!

  • Start the day with warm slices topped with butter or cream cheese.
  • Pair it with a nice cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
  • Feel adventurous? Use it as a base for an indulgent French toast!

Tips for Success

To guarantee your zucchini bread turns out perfect every single time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Make sure to drain your grated zucchini well to prevent excess moisture from ruining the texture.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container for maximum freshness.
  • And hey, before you pop the batter into the oven, give it a taste test! Adjust the sweetness if needed; it’s your bread after all.

Variations

Want to switch it up? This zucchini bread is a great canvas to play with!

  • Add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
  • Consider incorporating raisins or dried cranberries for a chewier texture.
  • Or get creative and sprinkle in different nuts or seeds. The combinations are endless!

Storage Tips

If you have any zucchini bread left (though I can’t imagine it lasting long), here’s how to store it:

  • Keep it at room temperature wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months.
  • Whenever you want some, simply thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.
Zucchini Bread

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Of course! Just make sure it’s thawed and drained properly before using.

2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based oil instead.

3. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
Absolutely! You can get creative with nutmeg or ginger for different flavor notes.

4. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Just swap out the flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

5. How can I tell when the bread is done?
A simple toothpick test works best; it should come out clean if the bread is properly baked.

This Zucchini Bread Recipe is so much more than just mixing a few ingredients. It’s about creating something delicious and comforting that your family and friends will love. Enjoy the fresh flavors, the aroma wafting from your kitchen, and the smiles that will come with each slice. Happy baking!

More Easy Breakfast Recipes:

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

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Zucchini Bread

Zucchini Bread

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This Zucchini Bread is a comforting treat that beautifully combines sweet and spiced flavors. Moist from fresh zucchini, it’s an easy addition to your breakfast or snack routine.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 loaves 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (or substitute with gluten-free flour)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup extra light olive oil (or canola or vegetable oil)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated zucchini (from about 1 lb or 2 medium zucchinis)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare two 8×4-inch loaf pans with butter and parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  • In a large bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients, mixing gently.
  • Grate zucchini and fold into the batter with nuts, if using.
  • Divide batter between loaf pans and bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool in pans for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Drain grated zucchini well to avoid excess moisture in the bread.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Taste the batter before baking and adjust sweetness to your liking.

  • Author: jesseca
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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