Zucchini Bread Recipe (with Video)

​Zucchini Bread Recipe: Zucchini bread is a delightful and versatile treat that blends the mild, slightly sweet flavor of zucchini with a moist, tender crumb.

It’s a great way to use up an abundance of summer zucchini, and the best part is, you don’t even need to be a pro baker to make it!

Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this zucchini bread recipe is easy, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients for Zucchini Bread

Before you dive into the kitchen, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic zucchini bread:

Core Ingredients:

• 2 cups of grated zucchini
• 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• ½ cup of vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt

Optional Ingredients for Customization:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ cup raisins
• 1 tbsp lemon zest for a citrusy twist

Tools You’ll Need

To make the process seamless, gather these tools before starting:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Grater for the zucchini
• Spatula
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini

Start by prepping your zucchini. Here’s how:

1. Choose the right zucchini: Pick firm, medium-sized zucchinis without blemishes. No need to peel them—the skin adds color and nutrients.
2. Grate the zucchini: Use a coarse grater to shred the zucchini. After grating, place it on a clean towel or paper towels and gently squeeze out excess moisture. Too much water can make the bread soggy.

Step 2: Preparing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your dry ingredients:

1. Sift the flour: Sifting helps make the flour light and fluffy, which gives your bread a nice texture.
2. Add other dry ingredients: Mix in the baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until evenly combined.

Step 3: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:

1. Whisk the eggs and sugar: Start by beating the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the oil: Pour in the vegetable oil (or melted butter) and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract: This adds a beautiful aroma and flavor to your bread.

Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

It’s time to bring it all together:

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently.
2. Mix carefully: Be careful not to overmix. Overworking the batter can lead to a dense bread, and we want a light, airy texture.

Step 5: Folding in the Zucchini

Now, fold in the grated zucchini:

1. Gently incorporate the zucchini: Using a spatula, fold the grated zucchini into the batter until it’s evenly distributed. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot—the zucchini will cook down and disappear into the bread, leaving behind moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Adding Optional Extras

If you want to get creative, now’s the time to add some extras:

1. Choose your add-ins: Popular choices include chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins. Add about ½ cup of whichever ingredient you prefer.
2. Fold them in: Gently fold your extras into the batter without overmixing.

Step 7: Preparing the Baking Pan

Prepare your loaf pan so the bread doesn’t stick:

1. Grease the pan: Use a non-stick spray or butter to coat the inside of the pan.
2. Dust with flour: For extra security, sprinkle a bit of flour on the greased pan and shake off the excess. This will help release the loaf cleanly after baking.

Step 8: Baking the Zucchini Bread

It’s time to bake your zucchini bread:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the bread: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.

Step 9: Cooling and Removing from the Pan

Cooling is crucial for a perfect slice:

1. Let it cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Remove from the pan: Carefully run a knife around the edges and flip the loaf out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Serving Suggestions

Once your bread is fully cooled, it’s time to enjoy:

• Serve it warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
• You can also toast slices for a crispy exterior and soft center.

Optional Add-ins for Zucchini Bread

You can personalize your zucchini bread by adding extra ingredients such as:

• Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch.
• Chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.
• Dried fruit (such as raisins or cranberries) for more texture and flavor.

Baking the Zucchini Bread

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Your Pan: Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Baking Time: Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cooling: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Bread

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Fold gently until ingredients are just combined.
• Squeeze out excess water from the zucchini: Too much moisture will cause soggy bread.
• Add-ins last: Stir in extras like nuts or chocolate chips just before pouring the batter into the pan.

How to Store Zucchini Bread

• Room Temperature: Zucchini bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just wrap it in plastic or keep it in an airtight container.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the entire loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Variations of Zucchini Bread

• Gluten-free Zucchini Bread: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Zucchini Bread: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and replace the oil with applesauce or plant-based butter.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini bread can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Toast a slice and spread it with butter or cream cheese.
• Pair it with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
• Serve alongside your morning coffee for a quick breakfast.

Health Benefits of Zucchini Bread

Though it’s a sweet treat, zucchini bread offers several health benefits:

• Zucchini is low in calories but rich in vitamin C and fiber.
• You can make the recipe healthier by reducing sugar, using whole wheat flour, or adding extra vegetables like carrots.

FAQs about Zucchini Bread Recipe

Can You Make Muffins with Zucchini Bread Batter?

Yes, you can! Simply pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. Muffins cook faster and make great grab-and-go snacks.

1. What is the best way to prepare zucchini for zucchini bread?

To prepare zucchini, grate it finely without peeling. You can use a box grater or food processor. Don’t worry about squeezing out the moisture unless your zucchini is overly watery.

2. Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds extra nutrients and blends well into the bread.

3. Can I freeze zucchini bread?

Yes, zucchini bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

4. How long does zucchini bread stay fresh?

Stored at room temperature in an airtight container, zucchini bread stays fresh for 3-4 days. In the fridge, it can last up to a week.

5. Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?

Absolutely! Popular add-ins include nuts like walnuts, chocolate chips, or even raisins for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Zucchini bread is a simple yet versatile recipe that anyone can master. Its ease of preparation and the variety of ways you can tweak it—whether by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices—makes it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Whether you prefer it as a sweet snack or a healthier option, zucchini bread is a go-to recipe that never disappoints. Try it for yourself and feel free to experiment with your own unique variations to make it truly yours!

References

For further reading and to validate the information provided in this Zucchini Bread Recipe, consider exploring these reputable sources:

1. AllRecipes – Find trusted recipes and tips for making perfect zucchini bread here.
2. Delish – Delve into a variety of zucchini bread recipes and ideas on making them even better here.
3. Food Network – Discover expert advice and step-by-step guides for baking zucchini bread from top chefs here.

These references ensure the recipe’s accuracy and provide additional insights for experimenting with your own version.