The BEST Zucchini Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This zucchini bread recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavors. The combination of sweet zucchini and cinnamon creates an irresistible aroma as it bakes, filling your kitchen with warmth. With a soft, moist crumb and slightly crispy edges, it’s ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This recipe is versatile, quick to make, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2¼ cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup canola or vegetable oil

• 3 eggs

• 3 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups grated zucchini

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 3 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp baking powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Prepare two 8×4 loaf pans by greasing them with cooking spray. Set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well incorporated.

4. Add the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix until just combined.

5. Stir in the grated zucchini and mix until fully combined.

6. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Fill the pans no higher than ⅔ full to allow room for rising.

7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Be cautious not to over-bake.

8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on cooling racks. For the best results, allow it to cool completely before slicing.

9. Once fully cooled, store the zucchini bread in a Ziploc bag or an airtight container.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 loaves

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 45-55 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nuts and Seeds: Add walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch.

• Chocolate Chips: For a more decadent twist, mix in some chocolate chips.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

• Spices: Experiment with other spices such as nutmeg or cloves for added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

To store your zucchini bread, place it in a Ziploc bag or airtight container once it has cooled completely. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or toast it for a few minutes in a toaster oven for a slightly crispy finish.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze zucchini bread?

Yes! Zucchini bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. How do I know when the zucchini bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done. If it’s wet or doughy, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

3. Should I peel the zucchini before grating?

No, there’s no need to peel the zucchini. Just wash it thoroughly and grate it with the skin on for added fiber and nutrients.

4. Can I use other oils instead of canola oil?

Yes, you can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil, coconut oil, or even melted butter for a different flavor.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the eggs for a flax egg and use a dairy-free oil. It’s an easy way to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

6. How long will zucchini bread last at room temperature?

When stored properly in an airtight container, zucchini bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature.

7. Can I add other fruits to the zucchini bread?

Yes, you can experiment with adding grated carrots, apples, or even mashed bananas to the batter for unique flavor combinations.

8. What type of zucchini is best for zucchini bread?

Any type of zucchini works well, but medium-sized zucchinis are ideal as they are tender and moist without being too watery.

9. Can I make this recipe into muffins instead of loaves?

Yes! You can convert this zucchini bread recipe into muffins by baking the batter in a muffin tin for about 18-20 minutes at 325°F. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

10. How can I make zucchini bread less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet bread, you can reduce the sugar by ¼ to ½ cup. The bread will still be moist and flavorful.

Conclusion

This zucchini bread recipe is an absolute winner—deliciously moist, perfectly spiced, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, a snack, or a treat to share with friends, it’s sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can enjoy a slice of homemade goodness in no time.

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