Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread
If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your dessert, you’ve come to the right place! This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is my go-to recipe for those moments when I need a little chocolatey comfort. The combination of rich cocoa and tender zucchini creates a moist bread that feels indulgent but also has that hidden goodness we all love. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight treat, a family gathering, or just because you deserve something sweet, this bread is perfect for any occasion.
What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to whip up. You can enjoy it fresh from the oven or save some slices for later—if they last that long! Trust me, once you try this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread, it will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: Each bite bursts with deep chocolate goodness that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Hidden Veggies: The zucchini adds moisture and nutrition without altering the taste, making it a clever addition.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast—this bread fits in anywhere!
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this delightful loaf in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this decadent treat; it’s sure to disappear fast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these items before you start baking:
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1/4 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil)
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups packed shredded zucchini
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)
Variations
One of the best things about this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients:
- Add nuts: For a delightful crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Use different oils: Experiment with different oils like olive oil for a unique twist on texture.
- Substitute sugars: Try using coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option without sacrificing sweetness.
How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Step 1: Preheat Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. Greasing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray ensures that your delicious creation will slide right out once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt. This step helps ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients throughout your batter.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, combine the eggs, melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This mixture provides moisture and sweetness to our wonderfully rich bread.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Then add in the shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Mixing gently helps maintain that lovely texture we’re aiming for!
Step 5: Prepare Batter
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolaty finish. This not only looks appealing but also adds more richness on each slice.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay), it’s time to take it out.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, slice it up and enjoy this delectable treat with family or friends—or keep it all to yourself!
Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread turns out perfectly every time!
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Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini adds moisture and flavor to your bread. Avoid using older zucchini as it may be drier and less flavorful, which could affect the final outcome.
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Do Not Overmix: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a tender crumb.
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Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: If your zucchini is particularly watery, gently squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel to remove some moisture. This helps prevent the batter from becoming too runny.
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Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your bread by adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a pinch of cinnamon. These extras can enhance the flavor profile and add interesting textures.
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Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark to prevent overbaking. The toothpick should come out mostly clean but may have a few moist crumbs.
How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread
This scrumptious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting friends for brunch, serving it right will elevate the experience.
Garnishes
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled bread for an indulgent finish.
- Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh berries not only adds color but also complements the rich chocolate flavor nicely.
Side Dishes
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the bread. Consider using seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for brightness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy side that pairs beautifully with the moist texture of the bread.
- Coffee or Herbal Tea: Brewed coffee or your favorite herbal tea makes for a comforting pairing that enhances the flavors of this chocolatey treat.
- Nut Butter Spread: Serve alongside almond or peanut butter for those who enjoy a little extra protein and creaminess with their sweet treats.
Enjoy making your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re set to impress family and friends alike. Happy baking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it make a delicious treat, but it also stores well, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Slice the bread into individual servings 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. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Reheating
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes.
- Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread.
Can I use other types of flour for Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?
Yes! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just note that different flours may alter the texture slightly.
How do I prevent my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread from becoming too dense?
Make sure not to overmix the batter once you’ve combined wet and dry ingredients. This helps keep the loaf light and fluffy!
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. Just remember not to exceed the total amount of add-ins by more than half a cup.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The chocolate flavor masks the zucchini well, making it a fun way for kids to enjoy their vegetables without realizing it.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful blend of flavors that will sweeten any day. Enjoy sharing it with friends and family, or keep it all for yourself—no judgment here! Happy baking!
Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread, a delightful treat that seamlessly blends the decadence of chocolate with the hidden goodness of zucchini. This moist and tender loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert! Each slice is packed with deep chocolate flavor, complemented by the subtle moisture from shredded zucchini, making it an irresistibly satisfying choice. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with family and friends, this versatile recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt.
- In a large bowl, mix the eggs, melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Add in the shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with remaining chocolate chips.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
