Zucchini Bread welcomes you into a cozy kitchen filled with the scent of cinnamon and fresh garden zucchini. Each slice boasts a moist crumb, tender buttery notes, and just the right hint of brown sugar caramel. Imagine pressing your warm morning mug against slightly crisp edges while playful flecks of green peek through golden batter. This recipe blends simple pantry staples with a splash of creamy buttermilk to elevate every bite, turning humble vegetables into show-stopping sweetness. Whether you’re sneaking bites before it cools or sharing with loved ones, this loaf promises comfort, delight, and an irresistible invitation to bake again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bread
- Moist and flavorful with every bite.
- Perfect way to sneak in veggies for the kids.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Great for breakfast or a sweet snack.
- Freezes well for later enjoyment.
Zucchini Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Sift together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Stir in buttermilk and grated zucchini.
- Fold in dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Spread batter into prepared pan.
- Bake 55–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Wrap in plastic wrap for storage.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up a delightful loaf of Zucchini Bread!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – for the base of the bread
- ½ tsp salt – enhances flavor
- 2 tsp baking powder – helps the bread rise
- ½ tsp baking soda – adds additional lift
- 1 tsp cinnamon – brings a warm spice
- ½ cup salted butter – for richness, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar – for sweetness
- ½ cup light brown sugar – adds moisture and flavor
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – provides a fragrant note
- 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients
- ½ cup buttermilk – keeps the bread moist
- 2 cups grated zucchini – about 2 medium zucchini, for moisture and texture
How to Make Zucchini Bread
Get ready to bake a delightful Zucchini Bread! With a preparation time of about 15 minutes, cooking time of 55-60 minutes, and a little cooling time, you’ll have a delicious treat to enjoy.
1. Step
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Step
Sift together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon; set aside.
3. Step
In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until creamy.
4. Step
Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Step
Stir in buttermilk and grated zucchini.
6. Step
Fold in dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
7. Step
Spread batter into prepared pan.
8. Step
Bake 55–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
9. Step
Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Step
Wrap in plastic wrap for storage.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 60 minutes |
| Extra Time | 10 minutes (cooling) |
| Total Time | 85 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Warm or at room temperature |
Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Bread
- Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture for a better texture.
- Experiment with adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh.
How to Serve this Zucchini Bread
- Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
- Spread cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a rich flavor.
- Top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
- Toast slices for a crunchy texture and serve with jam.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this Zucchini Bread ahead and store it easily:
Storing Zucchini Bread Leftovers
- Allow the bread to cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing Zucchini Bread
- Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- For best quality, slice before freezing for easy thawing.
Reheating Zucchini Bread
- Thaw frozen bread in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds.
- For a warm loaf, wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is the best way to store zucchini bread?
The best way to store zucchini bread is to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and moist for several days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it or freezing it for later enjoyment!
2. Can you freeze zucchini bread?
Yes, you can freeze zucchini bread! Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
3. How do you keep zucchini bread moist?
To keep zucchini bread moist, make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser loaf. Using fresh, grated zucchini adds moisture, so be sure to pack it loosely when measuring. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like buttermilk or yogurt can enhance the moisture content. Storing the bread properly after baking is also key to maintaining its softness.
4. What are some variations of zucchini bread recipes?
There are many delicious variations of zucchini bread! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Spices like nutmeg or ginger can also be added for extra flavor. For a healthier option, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or adding in other fruits like bananas or apples for a unique taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked Zucchini Bread wafting through your kitchen! This delightful treat is not only simple to make but also a wonderful way to use up those garden zucchinis. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy a slice (or two) of this deliciousness. Happy baking!