BEST Zucchini Bread

All the tips and tricks you need to make the BEST Zucchini Bread recipe of your life! It’s so easy to make, with consistent results every time. This bread bakes up moist, tender, and super flavorful! Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, you can easily transform it into chocolate chip zucchini bread or add nuts for a delightful crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can succeed.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of zucchini and spices creates a deliciously moist bread that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Customize it with chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet snack.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make extra and store it for later; it thaws beautifully!

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Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results, having the right tools is essential. Gather everything you need before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Box grater or food processor
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan: Ensures even baking and gives your bread its shape.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep wet and dry ingredients separate until just combined.
• Box Grater: A quick way to shred zucchini without making too much mess.

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 a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, or grease well with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

If adding nuts to your bread:
Spread about 3/4 cup chopped nuts on a dry baking sheet.
Toast at 350 for about 5 minutes.
Stir the nuts; continue baking in intervals of two minutes until browned and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine:
– 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
– Optional: add cardamom.
2. Whisk together and set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large microwave-safe bowl:
1. Melt 1/2 cup butter in the microwave.
2. Add:
– 1/4 cup oil
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla
3. Whisk together until combined.

Step 5: Shred the Zucchini

Shred your zucchini using the largest holes on a box grater or food processor. You need about 12 ounces, which is roughly two medium zucchinis.

Step 6: Blot/Squeeze the Zucchini

After shredding:
Place zucchini on paper towels and press down to soak up excess moisture. This helps avoid gummy bread texture.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add shredded zucchini to dry ingredients:
1. Stir together gently.
2. Add wet ingredients; mix only until just combined.

Step 8: Add Extras

Before fully mixing in flour:
If using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the batter using minimal strokes to avoid tough bread.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Pour batter into the prepared pan:
Top with raw or granulated sugar or a small amount of additional chocolate chips.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in center of oven at 350 degrees F for about 60 minutes:
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 11: Cool

Let cool in pan on wire rack for about 15 minutes before transferring out of the pan to cool completely.

Step 12: Store

Store in a sealed container on counter for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze for up to three months!

Enjoy this deliciously moist BEST Zucchini Bread recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite!

How to Serve BEST Zucchini Bread

Serving BEST Zucchini Bread can enhance your enjoyment of this delightful treat. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a sweet and tangy addition.

Toasted with Butter

• Warm slices in the toaster and slather them with butter for a comforting snack.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include slices of zucchini bread as part of a charcuterie board with cheeses, fruits, and nuts.

As French Toast

• Dip slices in egg mixture and cook on a skillet for a unique twist on French toast.

Paired with Coffee

• Enjoy a slice alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea for the perfect pairing.

How to Perfect BEST Zucchini Bread

Making the BEST Zucchini Bread is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini provides better moisture and flavor than older, larger ones.
• Don’t Skip Blotting: Blotting your shredded zucchini helps prevent excess moisture, leading to a better texture.
• Mix Ingredients Gently: Overmixing can result in tough bread. Mix just until combined for the best results.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean; this ensures your bread is fully baked.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
• Cool Properly: Let your bread cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with your BEST Zucchini Bread can elevate your meal. Consider these delicious options to serve alongside it:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy yogurt can provide a refreshing contrast and balance the sweetness of the bread.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, fruit salad complements the richness of zucchini bread beautifully.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Add protein to your meal by serving scrambled eggs alongside slices of zucchini bread.
4. Honey Butter: Whip up some honey butter for drizzling over warm slices for an extra treat.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter adds delicious nuttiness that pairs well with zucchini bread.
6. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses for a savory touch that contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors.
7. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea makes an excellent beverage choice to enjoy with zucchini bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the BEST Zucchini Bread can be simple, but some common mistakes may affect the outcome. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Grating Step: Ensure you shred the zucchini properly. This adds moisture and texture. Don’t skip this step or use large chunks.
• Neglecting to Blot the Zucchini: Failing to remove excess moisture can lead to gummy bread. Blotting or squeezing shredded zucchini helps maintain the perfect texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create tough bread. Combine ingredients just until they’re mixed for a light and fluffy result.
• Not Preheating the Oven: An unheated oven can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven before baking for consistent results.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking soda or flour can ruin your bread’s rise and flavor. Check expiration dates before you start baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the bread is cool before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing BEST Zucchini Bread

• Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap tightly, then place it in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
• For individual slices, wrap each slice separately and store them in a larger ziplock bag.

Reheating BEST Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, adding a little butter if desired, and warm each slice for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the BEST Zucchini Bread:

Can I use frozen zucchini in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just thaw it completely and drain any excess water before using it in your batter.

What makes this the BEST Zucchini Bread?

This recipe yields moist, tender bread with rich flavors from spices and optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

How do I know when my zucchini bread is done?

Your bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with no batter sticking to it.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter or oil to make it vegan-friendly.

How should I store leftover zucchini bread?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Zucchini Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with chocolate chips, nuts, or even spices of your choice. It’s perfect for snacks or dessert, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!