Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe: A Deliciously Moist Treat

Chocolate Zucchini Bread is one of those recipes that surprises everyone. Combining the earthy, healthy goodness of zucchini with rich chocolate creates a moist, flavorful loaf that feels indulgent but is packed with vegetables! It’s perfect as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert. The zucchini adds moisture without being detectable in taste, and the chocolate, well, that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why Add Zucchini?

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable often used in baking for its ability to provide moisture without overpowering other flavors. When grated and folded into the batter, it virtually melts into the bread. This gives the loaf a tender crumb and moist texture. It’s a sneaky way to incorporate vegetables into your diet, especially for kids who might be picky eaters.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess water)
• ½ cup (120ml) milk or yogurt
• 1 cup (175g) chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set this mixture aside.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the grated zucchini and milk or yogurt.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture.

5. Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top of the batter for extra chocolate goodness.

6. Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Squeeze the Zucchini: After grating, make sure to squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps prevent the bread from becoming too wet and soggy.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can result in a denser, less tender loaf.
• Add-ins: You can add a handful of chopped nuts, coconut, or even dried fruit like cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store your chocolate zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For a longer shelf life, refrigerate the loaf for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Zucchini Bread

This chocolate zucchini bread strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesomeness. The zucchini adds nutrients and moisture without affecting the chocolatey flavor. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, making snacks for the week, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is a surefire hit!

Give this Chocolate Zucchini Bread recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it whenever you need a comforting, delicious treat with a hidden veggie boost!