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If you’ve ever wondered how to transform humble garden zucchini into a delightfully moist and aromatic treat, this Zucchini Bread Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s a perfect balance of tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and warm cinnamon spice, with just the right crunch from pecans. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a cozy, homey bake that’s surprisingly simple, this recipe will charm you from the very first slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together in a straightforward way to create a bread that’s both hearty and tender. Each component plays a vital role, from the grated zucchini adding moisture to the cinnamon and vanilla infusing warmth and depth.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body of the bread, ensuring it holds together perfectly.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors by balancing the sweetness.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise and become fluffy.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds a cozy warmth and a touch of spice that complements the zucchini beautifully.
- 3 cups grated zucchini (3-4 medium zucchinis): The hero ingredient delivering moisture, texture, and a subtle earthiness.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- ½ cup apple sauce: A natural sweetener and moisture booster while keeping the bread tender.
- ½ cup canola or vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb soft and luscious without overpowering flavor.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the bread for that perfect dessert-like bite.
- 4 tsp vanilla: Brings a fragrant depth that elevates the whole loaf.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the tender bread.
How to Make Zucchini Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s perfectly hot when your bread goes in. Then, prepare two loaf pans by lightly spraying them with cooking oil and dusting with flour; this simple step guarantees your bread will release easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon. Sifting incorporates air, making your bread lighter, while combining these dry ingredients upfront distributes flavors evenly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl or your stand mixer, beat the eggs, apple sauce, oil, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fully incorporated. This mix is where all the moisture and sweetness starts to come to life.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry
Add half of the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing continuously. Then pour in the remaining half and beat on low to medium speed for 30-60 seconds. The batter should be well combined but avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender.
Step 5: Fold in Zucchini and Pecans
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the grated zucchini and chopped pecans into the batter. This step evenly distributes the zucchini’s moisture and the nutty crunch throughout the bread.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared loaf pans and place them in the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the tops feel firm and spring back to the touch—this signals your bread is baked through and ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Cool Before Removing
Once baked, take the pans out and let the loaves cool for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting time allows the bread to set so you can remove it from the pans cleanly without any crumbling.
How to Serve Zucchini Bread Recipe
Garnishes
This zucchini bread is lovely on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a thin spread of cream cheese frosting for a sweet finish. Freshly chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top right after baking also adds a charming touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your zucchini bread with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an ideal afternoon snack. It also makes a comforting breakfast when served alongside fresh fruit or yogurt, giving a lovely balance of flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the zucchini bread thick and toast it lightly before adding butter or your favorite nut butter. You can also transform it into a decadent bread pudding by cubing the bread and baking it with custard and spices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your zucchini bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Refrigerating can dry it out, so only do it if your kitchen is very warm.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven.
Reheating
To bring back the just-baked flavor, reheat your zucchini bread slices in a toaster oven or microwave. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness, and a little butter on top before warming adds delicious richness.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini bread recipe for muffins?
Absolutely! The batter works perfectly for muffins. Just adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes, and remember to grease or line your muffin tins properly.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
There’s no need. The skin adds color, nutrients, and texture to the bread, and it becomes wonderfully tender once baked.
Can I substitute the sugar for a healthier option?
You can try using coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup; however, liquid sweeteners will change the batter consistency, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly for the best results.
Is it necessary to grate the zucchini finely?
Grating finely helps distribute moisture evenly and blends the zucchini seamlessly into the bread’s texture, but if you prefer a chunkier texture, slightly coarser grating works too.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, omit the pecans if you prefer or have nut allergies. The bread will still be moist and flavorful, though you’ll miss that little extra crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini Bread Recipe is truly one of those comforting, timeless bakes that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and brings smiles to everyone at the table. From its ease to its delicious results, I can’t recommend enough that you try making this soon — it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a treasured favorite for every season.
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