Deliciously moist and packed with nutrients, this zucchini bread is a game-changer for healthy snacking. Dive into the perfect blend of sweetness and spice that’ll make you forget it’s good for you!
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Incorporates grated zucchini for moisture without excess oil.
- Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup for a healthier twist.
- Spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep, freezing, or gifting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
Equipment Needed
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your zucchini bread cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan. Tip: For extra ease, line the pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bread out after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. This blend of spices and leavening agents will give your bread its signature flavor and rise.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, 2 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined. The wet ingredients act as the glue that binds everything together, adding moisture and sweetness.
Fold in Zucchini
Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini into the wet mixture. The zucchini adds moisture and nutrients without overpowering the bread’s flavor. Tip: Squeeze excess water from the zucchini to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact time may vary, so start checking at 50 minutes. Tip: Cover the bread with foil if it starts browning too quickly.
Tips and Tricks
For an even healthier version, substitute half the flour with almond flour for added protein. If you’re out of honey or maple syrup, mashed bananas make a great natural sweetener alternative. To add a crunch, mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans. For a dairy-free version, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Lastly, let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds together perfectly.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
- Nutty Zucchini Bread: Incorporate 1/2 cup chopped nuts for added crunch and protein.
- Lemon Zucchini Bread: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing flavor.
- Spiced Zucchini Bread: Increase the cinnamon to 2 tsp and add 1/2 tsp ginger for extra warmth.
- Vegan Zucchini Bread: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup as the sweetener.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour in a 1:1 ratio. However, whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier choice. The texture might be slightly denser with whole wheat, but the flavor remains delicious.
How do I store zucchini bread?
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap slices individually for easy thawing.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole wheat flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture. The bread might be slightly more crumbly but still tasty.
Summary
This healthy zucchini bread is moist, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to customize. Whether you stick to the original or try a variation, it’s sure to become a favorite.