Best Zucchini Bread Recipe (with Video)

Best Zucchini Bread Recipe: Zucchini bread is a delicious and moist quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It’s a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden and sneak in some vegetables into your diet.

Whether you like it plain, with nuts, or chocolate chips, this recipe will guide you through making the best zucchini bread ever!

Ingredients Needed

To make the perfect zucchini bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ cup raisins

Substitutions:

• Swap white flour for whole wheat for a healthier option
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar
• Substitute applesauce for half the oil for a lighter version

Equipment Required

Before starting, gather these tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Grater for zucchini
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Parchment paper (optional)

How to Make Best Zucchini Bread – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini

1. Choose fresh zucchini – Smaller zucchinis have more flavor and less moisture.
2. Wash and dry – Rinse the zucchini thoroughly.
3. Grate it finely – Use the small holes of a grater for a finer texture.
4. Remove excess moisture – Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out extra water to prevent soggy bread.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together:
   • Flour
   • Baking soda
   • Baking powder
   • Salt
   • Cinnamon
   • Nutmeg
2. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are well blended for even rising.

Step 3: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together:
   • Eggs
   • Sugar (both white and brown)
   • Oil or melted butter
   • Vanilla extract
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
2. Gently fold using a spatula until just combined – do not overmix.
3. Fold in the zucchini and any optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Step 5: Preparing the Baking Pan

1. Grease the pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 6: Baking the Zucchini Bread

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
3. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cooling and Removing from Pan

1. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Step 8: Serving and Storing

• Serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Freeze slices for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread – Add ½ cup chocolate chips.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
• Vegan Option – Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Too dense? – Make sure you didn’t overmix the batter.
• Too dry? – Don’t squeeze out too much zucchini moisture.
• Not rising? – Check that your baking soda and powder are fresh.

Health Benefits of Zucchini Bread

• Low in calories, high in fiber.
• Contains vitamins A and C from zucchini.
• Can be made healthier by using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar.

FAQs about Best Zucchini Bread Recipe

What makes this zucchini bread recipe the best?

This zucchini bread stands out due to its moist texture, perfectly balanced flavors, and simple, wholesome ingredients. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of zucchini.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make gluten-free zucchini bread, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum, or add it separately to achieve the best texture.

How do I keep zucchini bread moist?

The key to moist zucchini bread is not overmixing the batter and ensuring that you use the correct amount of zucchini. Don’t squeeze out the moisture from the zucchini; its natural moisture contributes significantly to the bread’s texture.

Can I add nuts or fruits to this recipe?

Yes, you can customize this bread by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or fold in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a touch of extra sweetness. Chocolate chips are also a popular add-in!

How long does zucchini bread last?

Zucchini bread will last for about 1 week at room temperature when properly stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a resealable freezer bag.

Is it necessary to peel zucchini for the bread?

No, it’s not necessary to peel zucchini. The skin of the zucchini is thin, tender, and rich in nutrients. It also adds a beautiful speckled green color to the bread, enhancing its appearance.

What’s the best way to shred zucchini for bread?

The best way to shred zucchini for bread is using a box grater. Use the side with large holes to get the perfect texture. Make sure to shred the zucchini right before adding it to the mix to maintain its moisture content.

These tips and tricks will help you bake the perfect loaf of zucchini bread, delicious every time!

Conclusion

This zucchini bread recipe is simple, delicious, and customizable! Whether you enjoy it with coffee, as a snack, or for breakfast, it’s the perfect way to use up fresh zucchini. Try different add-ins and make it your own!