Introduction
Zucchini bread is a delightful and versatile treat that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with the goodness of fresh zucchini, this bread is moist, flavorful, and has just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, zucchini bread is a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with various add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the sugar and egg together until well combined. Stir in the shredded zucchini, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and/or chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Conclusion
Enjoy a slice of this delicious zucchini bread with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert. The moist texture and delightful flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste.
Recommendations and Substitutions
Healthier Options
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Applesauce: Replace half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.
Add-Ins
- Raisins: Add a handful of raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
- Dried Cranberries: For a tangy twist, add dried cranberries.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor.
Dietary Restrictions
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this bread suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based oil.
By following this easy zucchini bread recipe and trying out some of the recommended substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious treat that caters to your taste and dietary needs.
