Chocolate Zucchini Bread

This easy Chocolate Zucchini Bread will remind you of your favorite chocolate cake! With its moist texture and rich chocolate flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing taste. Your family will love this delightful twist on traditional zucchini bread!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Moist: The shredded zucchini keeps the bread incredibly moist and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple steps that even novice bakers can master with ease.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it warm from the oven or toasted with a pat of butter for a cozy treat.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for potlucks and gatherings, everyone will appreciate this unique dessert!
• Freezes Well: Make a double batch and freeze half for later indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best chocolate zucchini bread, you’ll need the right tools. These essentials make the process smoother and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and the perfect shape for your bread.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep ingredients organized while mixing wet and dry components separately.
• Whisk: Quickly combines ingredients to achieve a smooth batter without lumps.

Ingredients

This easy chocolate zucchini bread will remind you of your favorite chocolate cake!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 1/4 cup canola oil (vegetable oil or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-ins

• 1 1/2 cups packed shredded zucchini
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)

How to Make Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the eggs, melted butter, oil, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth. You might have a few small brown sugar clumps; that is fine.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients; don’t overmix. Gently fold in the shredded zucchini until just combined. Stir in 3/4 cup of the chocolate chips.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips over the top of the bread. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. You may see some melted chocolate chips on it; this is fine.

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire cooling rack. Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges of the bread to carefully remove it from the pan. Let cool on a wire rack until slightly warm before slicing.

Step 7: Storage Tips

If using coconut oil, ensure it is melted and slightly cooled before adding it to your mix. The bread will keep at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap for up to four days. It also freezes well—cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to one month. Defrost before slicing.

Enjoy making this delightful Chocolate Zucchini Bread, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth!

How to Serve Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate zucchini bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, these suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Top slices with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor.
• Bananas: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture and natural sweetness.

With Nut Butter

• Peanut Butter: Spread peanut butter on warm slices for a protein-packed boost.
• Almond Butter: Use almond butter to add a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate.

As Toast

• Toast It: Lightly toast slices for a crunchy exterior. Serve with butter or cream cheese.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on toasted bread for an extra sweet touch.

With Whipped Cream

• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes this bread feel like dessert.
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over whipped cream for decadence.

How to Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

To ensure your chocolate zucchini bread comes out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Grate fresh zucchini just before using it to maintain moisture and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking at 50 minutes; ovens may vary in temperature.
• Let It Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
• Store Correctly: Keep wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for freshness, up to four days.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with chocolate zucchini bread can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Greek Yogurt: A scoop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. Try it plain or flavored.
2. Fresh Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread nicely.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast option.
4. Smoothie Bowl: A fruity smoothie bowl offers a refreshing contrast and makes for a nutritious start to your day.
5. Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, serve warm slices with vanilla or mint ice cream.
6. Chia Pudding: A chia seed pudding adds an interesting texture and is packed with nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold eggs: Always use eggs at room temperature. Cold eggs can cause the batter to curdle and affect the texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Gently mix your ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of a light texture.
• Not squeezing out excess moisture from zucchini: Before adding zucchini, ensure you squeeze out extra moisture. This helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before removing it. This step ensures it holds its shape and slices nicely.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can make your bread dry.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chocolate Zucchini Bread in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Keep it at room temperature if you plan on eating it within that time frame.

Freezing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month. Make sure to label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a slice, and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Zucchini Bread:

Can I substitute other oils for canola oil?

Yes, you can use melted coconut oil or any neutral vegetable oil as an alternative.

What kind of cocoa powder should I use?

You can opt for Dutch process cocoa for a richer flavor or unsweetened cocoa if preferred.

How do I know when my Chocolate Zucchini Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean but may have some melted chocolate chips.

Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or seeds can add great texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute, but results may vary.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a snack or dessert, and you can easily customize it by adding nuts or spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how moist and rich it turns out!