Banana Zucchini Bread

Banana zucchini bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. This recipe brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the moisture of grated zucchini, resulting in a deliciously moist loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this banana zucchini bread is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of bananas and zucchini creates a beautifully moist texture that stays fresh for days.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this banana zucchini bread is a healthier option than many other baked goods.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for making banana zucchini bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Fork or potato masher
• Grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and the perfect shape for your bread.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without any mess.
• Grater: Essential for getting finely grated zucchini that blends seamlessly into the batter.

Ingredients

Banana zucchini bread is an easy, quick bread recipe that combines the beloved flavor of banana bread with the mouthwatering moistness of zucchini. Expect a beautiful brown crust and a light and soft interior speckled with dark chocolate chips and grated zucchini.

For the Bread

• 3 ripe bananas (12 ounces, 330 grams or 1⅓ cup mashed)
• 2 medium zucchini (10 ounces or 300 grams, or 2 cups grated with the large holes of a box grater)
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup olive oil (or another neutral vegetable oil)
• ¼ cup almond milk (or any other milk)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 50% whole-wheat flour and 50% all-purpose flour)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips
• ½ cup walnuts (chopped)

this recipe

How to Make Banana Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper at the bottom and brushing the sides with oil or butter.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the three ripe bananas using a fork. Then add in the sugar, olive oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 3: Prepare Zucchini

Rinse and dry two medium zucchinis. Use the large holes of a box grater to grate them finely. Squeeze out some excess water from the grated zucchini to avoid making the batter too wet.

Fold the grated zucchini into your banana mixture. Next, add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently to combine everything until most lumps are gone but be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients

You can now fold in dark chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if desired for added flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 55 to 65 minutes. The top should turn a dark golden brown color. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly dry.

Step 6: Cool Down & Slice

Once baked, let your banana zucchini bread cool completely on a wire rack for at least three hours (overnight is best). After cooling, slice into thick pieces about 2 cm each and enjoy!

How to Serve Banana Zucchini Bread

Banana zucchini bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, there are many serving options to elevate your experience.

With Cream Cheese Spread

• Tasty topping: A generous spread of cream cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bread.

As French Toast

• Indulgent twist: Slice the banana zucchini bread and dip it in an egg mixture before frying it up for a unique take on classic French toast.

Served Warm with Butter

• Comforting choice: Enjoy slices warm from the oven with a pat of butter melting on top, enhancing its moistness and flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Refreshing addition: Serve alongside sliced bananas, berries, or any seasonal fruit for a vibrant and healthy meal option.

Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup

• Sweet finish: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add an extra layer of sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy a richer taste.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• Healthy pairing: A dollop of yogurt on the side provides creaminess and balances out the flavors while adding protein to your snack.

How to Perfect Banana Zucchini Bread

Perfecting your banana zucchini bread recipe can make all the difference. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bread turns out delicious every time.

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for best results.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Stir until just combined to maintain a light texture.
• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly dry. If it’s wet, bake for a few more minutes.
• Let it cool completely: Cooling allows flavors to develop. Aim for at least three hours before slicing to achieve the best taste.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your banana zucchini bread with nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Zucchini Bread

Banana zucchini bread pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to balance the sweetness of the bread.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layers of Greek yogurt, honey, and granola create a deliciously creamy side dish that offers protein and crunch.
3. Cottage Cheese Bowl
   A bowl of cottage cheese topped with sliced fruits enhances protein content while providing a creamy texture alongside the bread.
4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This nutritious pudding brings creaminess and fiber that complements banana zucchini bread perfectly, making it ideal for breakfast or dessert.
5. Nut Butter Dip
   Pairing banana zucchini bread with almond or peanut butter adds richness and healthy fats; perfect for dipping!
6. Herbal Tea or Coffee
   Enjoying your slices with herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee elevates the experience by adding warmth and comfort to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana zucchini bread can be a delightful experience, but some common pitfalls can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Using unripe bananas – Unripe bananas lack the sweetness and flavor needed for the best banana zucchini bread. Always use ripe or overripe bananas for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the grating step – Grating zucchini is essential for proper moisture and texture in your bread. Avoid cutting it into chunks, as this can result in uneven baking.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to tough bread. Mix just until ingredients are combined and avoid large lumps, but don’t worry about perfection.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is a science, and incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Opening the oven door too early – Opening the oven door before your banana zucchini bread has finished baking can lead to collapsing. Wait until the baking time is nearly done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between slices to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing Banana Zucchini Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Zucchini Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my banana zucchini bread is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly dry, indicating that your banana zucchini bread is baked through properly.

Can I make this banana zucchini bread vegan?

Yes! Substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk and use flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs if needed.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of banana zucchini bread?

Consider adding nuts, seeds, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor. Dark chocolate chips also complement the taste beautifully!

How do I prevent my banana zucchini bread from becoming too dense?

Make sure you measure your flour correctly and avoid overmixing the batter. This helps keep your banana zucchini bread light and fluffy!

Final Thoughts

Banana zucchini bread offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures that make it a favorite among many. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various mix-ins, making it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Whether you enjoy it plain or loaded with extras like nuts or chocolate chips, this recipe is sure to delight! Give it a try today!

Print

Banana Zucchini Bread

---

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Banana zucchini bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful twist on the classic banana bread, combining ripe bananas with the subtle sweetness of zucchini. This recipe yields a tender loaf perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With the added richness from dark chocolate chips and walnuts, each slice bursts with delightful textures and flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Just mix your ingredients, bake, and enjoy this nutritious treat that can be customized with your favorite add-ins. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a standalone snack, banana zucchini bread is sure to please everyone.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ripe bananas
• 2 medium zucchinis
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash ripe bananas. Mix in sugar, olive oil, almond milk, and vanilla until combined.
3. Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture; fold into banana mixture.
4. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; stir gently until just combined.
5. Fold in dark chocolate chips and walnuts if desired.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly dry.
7. Cool on wire rack for at least three hours before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 175
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.