The Best Zucchini Bread
A delightful, moist zucchini bread that perfectly balances sweetness and spice, making it an excellent addition to breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated If fresh zucchini isn't available, use frozen, thawed, and drained zucchini.
- 1 cup granulated sugar You can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil Can be substituted with applesauce or melted coconut oil for a lighter version.
- 3 large eggs Can substitute 1 egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For a richer flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste.
For the Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Measure accurately to prevent a dense loaf.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt A pinch helps enhance the bread's flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Use fresh spices for best flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg Add ginger and cardamom for additional flavor.
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips Coat chocolate chips in flour to prevent sinking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Baking
- Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Enjoy warm with butter or cream cheese, or as part of a brunch spread. For a unique touch, drizzle some icing over the cooled bread or sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.