Zucchini Bread
If you’re looking for a delightful way to use up some of that summer zucchini, this Zucchini Bread is just what you need! Bursting with flavor and easy enough for even the busiest weeknight, this recipe has been a favorite in my kitchen for years. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into a moist, fluffy bread that’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
What I adore about this Zucchini Bread is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself on a cozy weekend morning, this bread fits the bill perfectly. It’s incredibly forgiving and makes your home smell heavenly while it bakes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious Zucchini Bread in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a slice of this tasty bread. It’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. It stays fresh for days!
- Customizable: The recipe allows for endless variations, so you can make it your own every time.
- Healthy Twist: Packed with zucchini, it’s a sneaky way to add some veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this scrumptious Zucchini Bread!
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 small)
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts (or pecans)
Variations
One of the best things about this Zucchini Bread is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:
- Add Some Spice: Try adding nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for an extra depth of flavor.
- Fruit Boost: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet surprise!
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips instead of nuts for a decadent treat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
How to Make Zucchini Bread
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F. This ensures that your bread will bake evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pans
Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from sticking, making it easier to remove once baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the grated zucchini, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined. The moisture from the zucchini is key to keeping this bread soft.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the zucchini mixture along with the walnuts. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until everything is moistened—this keeps your bread light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter between your prepared loaf pans and pop them in the oven! Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Covering them with aluminum foil after 30 minutes helps prevent overly dark tops.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows it to set properly while retaining its moisture.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of this delightful Zucchini Bread!
Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Bread
Making Zucchini Bread can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your loaves turn out perfectly every time!
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Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini adds moisture and flavor to your bread. Older zucchini may have a drier texture, impacting the overall outcome.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together ensures a light, fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, which we definitely want to avoid!
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Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark. You want a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean but not dry.
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Cool Properly: Allowing your bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy on the bottom.
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Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different nuts for a twist on the classic recipe. This allows you to customize your Zucchini Bread to suit your taste!
How to Serve Zucchini Bread
Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delightful treat at your next gathering or breakfast table.
Garnishes
- Cream Cheese Spread: A simple dollop of cream cheese spread adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist bread.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or basil provides a refreshing touch and elevates the dish’s visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the Zucchini Bread while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a nutritious side that balances flavors wonderfully.
- Scrambled Eggs: For a heartier breakfast option, serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned with herbs—perfect for those who want something savory.
- Coffee or Tea: Pairing this sweet bread with a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere that enhances any meal.
Enjoy your Zucchini Bread as part of breakfast, dessert, or even as an afternoon snack—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious snack or breakfast option ready whenever you need it.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the Zucchini Bread to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Slice the Zucchini Bread before freezing for easier portions later.
- Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating
- Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
- For a warm treat, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds per slice.
- Alternatively, warm slices in an oven set to 350˚F for about 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Zucchini Bread that might come to mind as you prepare this delightful recipe!
Can I use frozen zucchini for my Zucchini Bread?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to your batter.
What makes this Zucchini Bread so moist?
The combination of grated zucchini and vegetable oil keeps this Zucchini Bread incredibly moist and fluffy. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate veggies into your baking!
How should I store my Zucchini Bread?
To keep your Zucchini Bread fresh, store it wrapped at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I substitute the walnuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts, feel free to use pecans or even omit them altogether. You could also add chocolate chips for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s such a versatile recipe that brings together great flavors and textures, perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Remember, this bread is not only delicious but also provides an excellent way to sneak some veggies into your diet. Enjoy every slice and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me—I love hearing from fellow bakers!
Zucchini Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Looking for a delicious way to enjoy summer zucchini? This moist and fluffy Zucchini Bread is the answer! Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to whip up. It’s packed with flavor and transforms humble ingredients into a delightful treat that your family will love. The warm aroma of baking zucchini bread will fill your home, making it a cozy addition to any gathering or quiet weekend morning. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized with various mix-ins to suit your taste. Enjoy every slice of this scrumptious creation!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 small)
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts (or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients along with the walnuts until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in pans for 15 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
