This Classic Zucchini Bread is the perfect blend of warm spices, soft texture, and natural sweetness from fresh zucchini. The moisture from the zucchini ensures every bite is incredibly soft and tender, making it an irresistible treat. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert, this bread is sure to impress with its subtle spice and comforting flavor. What makes this zucchini bread truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, spread with butter, or even toasted for an extra crunch. Plus, the recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. If you’ve never tried baking with zucchini, this is your sign to start you won’t be disappointed!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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2 large eggs
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1 cup vegetable oil
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 cups grated zucchini (excess moisture removed)
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
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Stir in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
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Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped walnuts (if using).
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 10 slices
Why Zucchini Bread is So Popular
One of the reasons zucchini bread is so beloved is its unique ability to be both healthy and indulgent. The shredded zucchini adds incredible moisture to the bread, ensuring a soft and tender crumb without making the loaf taste like vegetables. Plus, it’s a great way to use up excess zucchini during the summer months when the vegetable is abundant.
This bread has been a household favorite for decades, often appearing in cookbooks and on family recipe cards. It’s versatile enough to be customized with nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of cinnamon sugar. The warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg make it a comforting treat, ideal for cozy mornings or as a light dessert.
The Secret to the Perfect Moist Texture
The key to a perfectly moist zucchini bread lies in the balance of ingredients. Zucchini naturally holds a lot of water, which helps keep the bread soft and fluffy. However, it’s important to remove excess moisture by patting the grated zucchini with a paper towel before adding it to the batter.
Additionally, using oil instead of butter in the recipe ensures a consistently moist texture. The combination of oil, eggs, and zucchini creates a light and tender crumb that stays fresh for days. Brown sugar also plays a role in adding a slight caramel-like sweetness while contributing to the bread’s softness.
A Versatile and Customizable Recipe
One of the best things about zucchini bread is how adaptable it is. While the classic version is delicious on its own, you can enhance the flavors by adding mix-ins such as:
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Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
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Chocolate Chips: A handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips make the bread extra indulgent.
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Dried Fruits: Raisins or cranberries give a slight chewiness and natural sweetness.
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Citrus Zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavors.
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Spices: While cinnamon and nutmeg are standard, adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom can bring a new depth of flavor.
Whether you keep it simple or get creative with mix-ins, zucchini bread is a forgiving recipe that allows for experimentation.
Health Benefits of Zucchini in Baking
Zucchini is a nutrient-rich vegetable that provides a variety of health benefits. When incorporated into baked goods, it adds moisture and fiber while also offering essential vitamins and minerals. Some key health benefits of zucchini include:
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Low in Calories: Zucchini is naturally low in calories, making it a great ingredient for lightening up baked goods.
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Rich in Fiber: The fiber in zucchini aids digestion and helps keep you full longer.
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Packed with Vitamins: It contains Vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and Vitamin A, which benefits eye health.
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Hydrating Properties: With a high water content, zucchini contributes to hydration while keeping the bread moist.
Although zucchini bread is still a sweet treat, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables without compromising flavor.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Zucchini bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
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With Coffee or Tea: A warm slice pairs perfectly with a morning coffee or a cup of herbal tea.
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Toasted with Butter: Toasting the bread enhances its texture and flavor, making it extra delicious with a spread of butter or cream cheese.
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Drizzled with Honey: For a touch of natural sweetness, drizzle a slice with honey or maple syrup.
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With Yogurt and Fruit: Serve it with a side of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a wholesome breakfast.
You can also turn zucchini bread into muffins by baking the batter in a muffin tin. This is great for portion control and makes it easy to grab and go.
Storing and Freezing Zucchini Bread
Zucchini bread stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, here are some storage tips:
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Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week for extended freshness.
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Freezing: Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it lightly.
Freezing is a great option if you want to make multiple loaves and save them for later. Just thaw a slice at room temperature whenever you’re ready to eat it.
Conclusion:
Zucchini bread is the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or as a quick breakfast on the go, this classic bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Next time you find yourself with extra zucchini, try baking a loaf of this delicious bread. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how satisfying every bite is. Happy baking!