Moist Zucchini Bread

This Moist Zucchini Bread is soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar. The addition of grated zucchini keeps it extra moist, while walnuts or pecans add a delicious crunch. It’s a great way to use fresh zucchini and makes a perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (260 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp coarse salt (or ½ tsp fine salt)
  • 1⅓ cups (265 g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups (305 g) zucchini, grated
  • ½ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (118 ml) cooking oil
  • ½ cup (118 ml) milk
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Batter

  • Preheat oven to 350ºF (176ºC).
  • Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  • Stir in the grated zucchini and chopped nuts (if using).

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • In another bowl, whisk eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

3. Bake the Bread

  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  • Bake for 45-50 minutes (for a 9×5-inch pan) or 55-60 minutes (for an 8×4-inch pan) until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cool and Serve

  • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Serving Suggestions

  • Spread with butter or cream cheese.
  • Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
  • Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra moisture, do not squeeze the liquid out of the zucchini.
  • For a richer flavor, replace half of the oil with melted butter.
  • For added texture, mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rich in fiber and vitamins from zucchini.
  • Good source of healthy fats from nuts.
  • Lower in refined sugar with brown sugar instead of white sugar.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Can be made dairy-free by using almond or oat milk.
  • Can be made gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx.)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fat: 11g

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap slices and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist, soft, and flavorful
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients
  • Great for meal prep and freezing
  • A delicious way to eat more vegetables

Conclusion
This Moist Zucchini Bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and spiced loaf that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, it’s a delicious way to use up zucchini. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes! Replace half of the flour with whole wheat for a denser texture.
  • Can I make muffins instead? Yes! Bake in a muffin tin at 350ºF (176ºC) for 18-20 minutes.
  • Can I use honey instead of sugar? Yes! Use 1 cup honey instead of brown sugar, but reduce the milk slightly.
  • Do I need to peel the zucchini? No! The skin softens and blends into the bread.
  • Why is my bread dense? Overmixing can make it dense—stir just until combined.
  • Can I use buttermilk instead of milk? Yes! Buttermilk adds extra moisture and a slight tang.
  • How do I make it nut-free? Just omit the nuts or replace them with chocolate chips.
  • Can I add lemon zest for more flavor? Yes! Lemon zest pairs well with zucchini.
  • How can I make this bread fluffier? Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
  • Can I use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil? Yes! It will add a mild coconut flavor.