BEST Zucchini Bread

All the tips and tricks you need to make the BEST Zucchini Bread recipe of your life! This delightful bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. With its moist texture and rich flavors, it’s a favorite for all occasions, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add chocolate chips or nuts to elevate your loaf even further!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Tender: Enjoy a slice of bread that remains moist and flavorful every time you bake it.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most ingredients in your pantry already, making this recipe easy to whip up anytime.
• Versatile Add-ins: Customize your loaf with chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a loaf to share with family and friends or keep it all to yourself!
• Easy Storage Options: Learn how to store and freeze your zucchini bread for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure success while making the BEST Zucchini Bread, gather the right tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

this recipe

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Box grater or food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping your bread into a perfect loaf.
• Mixing bowls: Help keep your dry and wet ingredients separate until it’s time to combine them.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are well combined, promoting an even texture in your bread.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 2 cups shredded zucchini (12 ounces, about 2 zucchini)
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) melted
• 1/4 cup neutral oil (vegetable oil, canola oil, light olive oil, etc)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup chocolate chips (I used half mini, half dark chocolate chopped)
• 3/4 cup toasted walnuts (or pecans)
• 1 tablespoon raw sugar (or granulated sugar, to top bread)

How to Make BEST Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line one 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Toast Nuts (if using)

If you plan to add nuts, spread about 3/4 cup chopped nuts on a dry baking sheet. Toast at 350 for about 5 minutes. Stir the nuts every couple of minutes until they are browned and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
* 2 cups all purpose flour
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
* 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon cardamom

Whisk together and set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup butter in the microwave. Then add:
* 1/4 cup oil
* 3/4 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 2 eggs
* 2 teaspoons vanilla

Whisk together until combined.

Step 5: Shred Zucchini

Shred zucchini using a box grater with large holes. Aim for about two smallish-medium zucchinis or roughly 12 ounces.

Step 6: Blot/Squeeze Zucchini

Blot shredded zucchini using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent gummy bread.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded zucchini to the bowl of dry ingredients. Then mix together with wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts

If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, incorporate them into the batter now before over-mixing occurs.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Pour batter into the prepared pan. Top with raw sugar or additional chocolate chips if desired.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

Bake in the center of the oven at 350 degrees F for about an hour. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 11: Cool Down

Let bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for about fifteen minutes before transferring it onto the rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Store Properly

Store any leftover zucchini bread in a sealed container on the counter for up to five days or freeze for longer storage options as needed!

How to Serve BEST Zucchini Bread

Serving your BEST Zucchini Bread can elevate your meal or snack time. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious bread.

With Cream Cheese Spread

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and tangy cream cheese spread adds richness and pairs perfectly with the spices in the bread.

As a Breakfast Toast

• Avocado Toast: Top a slice of zucchini bread with smashed avocado, salt, and pepper for a nutritious morning boost.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Mixed Berries: Serve slices alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Honey

• Honey Glaze: A light drizzle of honey on warm zucchini bread enhances its sweetness and flavor.

Served with Nut Butter

• Almond or Peanut Butter: Spread your favorite nut butter on a slice for added protein and creamy texture.

With Coffee or Tea

• Hot Beverage Pairing: Enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.

How to Perfect BEST Zucchini Bread

To achieve the best results when making this zucchini bread, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Choose firm, fresh zucchini for the best flavor and moisture content.
• Don’t Skip the Blotting: Blotting the shredded zucchini helps remove excess moisture, preventing a gummy texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread.
• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the bread is done. It should come out clean without any batter.
• Cool Properly: Let the bread cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack for better texture.
• Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with your BEST Zucchini Bread can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, balancing the sweetness of the bread.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad complements the flavors in zucchini bread beautifully.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast option.
4. Granola: Crunchy granola offers a delightful textural contrast when paired with zucchini bread.
5. Cottage Cheese: A scoop of cottage cheese provides a savory touch that works well with sweet bread.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Pair it with a smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts for an energizing treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Zucchini bread is a beloved treat, but common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the blotting step: Failing to remove excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to gummy bread. Always blot or squeeze your shredded zucchini before adding it to the batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your bread tough. Stir just until combined for a tender loaf.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Use a spoon to scoop flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different. Start checking for doneness at 60 minutes, but be prepared for longer baking times if needed.
• Skipping the cooling period: Cutting into the bread too soon may result in a soggy texture. Allow it to cool adequately before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your BEST Zucchini Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing BEST Zucchini Bread

• Wrap your completely cooled zucchini bread tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For individual slices, wrap each slice separately before placing them in a larger bag.

Reheating BEST Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy on the edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the BEST Zucchini Bread?

This recipe combines moist zucchini, rich spices, and optional chocolate chips or nuts for flavor. It’s easy and consistently delicious!

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends, but be aware that this may change texture slightly.

How do I know when my zucchini bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it’s done when it comes out clean without wet batter clinging to it.

Can I make mini loaves of BEST Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Adjust baking time down to about 30-40 minutes depending on the size of your mini loaf pans.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

This BEST Zucchini Bread recipe is not only moist and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or dessert, this zucchini bread will surely impress everyone who tries it!

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BEST Zucchini Bread

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the BEST Zucchini Bread that will transform your breakfast, snack, or dessert game! This moist and flavorful loaf is a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying alone, this recipe offers endless versatility with options to customize it with chocolate chips or nuts. With simple ingredients most likely found in your pantry, whipping up this delicious bread has never been easier. Plus, you’ll learn helpful storage tips to keep your zucchini bread fresh and ready for enjoyment anytime!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 cups shredded zucchini
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• Optional: chocolate chips and nuts

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or nonstick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, melt butter and mix in oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
4. Shred zucchini and blot it to remove excess moisture before adding it to the wet mixture.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently until just mixed; fold in any additional chocolate chips or nuts.
6. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and top with raw sugar if desired.
7. Bake for about one hour or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for fifteen minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (68g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For an extra flavor twist, consider adding cardamom or experimenting with different spices. Don’t skip blotting the zucchini; it helps maintain the perfect texture!