Name: Zucchini Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
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; ¾ cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts (or pecans)

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If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your diet, this Zucchini Bread is the answer! It’s one of those recipes that brings back fond memories of cozy afternoons in the kitchen. The aroma of warm spices and freshly baked bread wafting through the house is simply irresistible. This recipe has become a beloved favorite for our family gatherings and busy weeknights alike, making it perfect for any occasion.

What makes this Zucchini Bread truly special is how moist and fluffy it turns out every time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any extra zucchini you might have from your garden or the farmer’s market. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this Zucchini Bread in no time.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet flavor and soft texture—kids especially enjoy it!
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack any time of day.
Make-ahead friendly: Bake a loaf in advance and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays fresh for days!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making this recipe feel even more special. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own delightful 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 recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these fun ideas:

Add chocolate chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
Use different nuts: Swap out walnuts for pecans or even almonds for a unique crunch.
Incorporate spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and flavor.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350˚F. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the start. While that’s heating up, grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans so your bread won’t stick.

Step 2: Combine 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 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the grated zucchini, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This step is crucial as it brings moisture and flavor into the bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to fold in those dry ingredients along with walnuts. Gently combine everything until just mixed—overmixing can lead to dense bread. We want it light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Divide the batter between your prepared loaf pans and pop them in the oven! Bake for about 50-60 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re like me and prefer a golden top without burning it, cover with aluminum foil after about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, let your beautiful loaves cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely; patience will pay off when you slice into that warm, soft bread later!

Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Bread

Making Zucchini Bread can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’re sure to impress everyone with your baking skills!

Use fresh zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini adds moisture and flavor that enhances the overall taste of your bread. If possible, choose medium-sized zucchinis as they have the best texture for baking.
Don’t skip the squeezing: After grating your zucchini, give it a gentle squeeze to remove excess moisture. This helps ensure your bread isn’t too soggy, allowing it to bake evenly and maintain a fluffy texture.
Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a classic choice, feel free to add nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor. These spices complement the zucchini beautifully and can make your bread even more aromatic.
Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your bread a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s time to take it out!
Let it rest: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps prevent it from breaking apart. This step ensures you get perfectly shaped slices when you’re ready to enjoy your treat.

How to Serve Zucchini Bread

Zucchini Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways! Whether you serve it as breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

Creamy yogurt or vegan yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of the bread.
Fresh berries: A sprinkle of fresh blueberries or raspberries not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness.

Side Dishes

Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast and complements the flavors of zucchini bread beautifully.
Greek salad: The savory elements of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives create a delightful balance when served alongside sweet zucchini bread.
Nut butter: Spread almond or cashew butter on warm slices for an extra protein boost and rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bread.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and pro tips into your baking routine, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable Zucchini Bread experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks ahead. You can easily whip up a batch and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious snack or breakfast option on hand.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the zucchini bread to cool completely before storing.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

To reheat, simply take slices out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful Zucchini Bread recipe.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini in my Zucchini Bread?

Yes! Yellow squash can be used as a substitute. Just remember to grate it finely, similar to how you would prepare zucchini.

What makes this Zucchini Bread so moist?

The combination of grated zucchini and oil contributes to the moisture in this bread. Don’t skip these key ingredients; they are essential for that tender texture!

How do I know when my Zucchini Bread is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If it comes out wet with batter, give it more time in the oven.

Can I add other ingredients to my Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even spices like nutmeg for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll enjoy making this lovely Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting treat that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. Whether you savor it fresh or save some for later, I’m sure you’ll find it irresistible. Happy baking!

Zucchini Bread

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Author: Autumn
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

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Zucchini Bread, a moist and fluffy treat that beautifully combines the flavors of fresh zucchini with warm spices. This quick bread is not only a fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables but also makes for a comforting addition to your breakfast table or an afternoon snack. The sweet aroma filling your kitchen will transport you back to cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones. With its versatile nature, this Zucchini Bread is perfect for any occasion—whether enjoyed plain, topped with nut butter, or paired with yogurt and berries.

Ingredients

Scale

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
¾ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups chopped walnuts (or pecans)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350˚F and grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
Gently fold in the dry ingredients along with walnuts until just combined.
Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in pans for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.