Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is a delightful and moist quick bread that combines the subtle flavor of zucchini with rich chocolate chips for a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This bread is a great way to use up any extra zucchini from your garden and sneak some veggies into a sweet treat. The zucchini adds moisture and tenderness, while the chocolate chips give every bite a touch of indulgence. It’s ideal for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, and it’s sure to be loved by both kids and adults alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a box grater and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out the excess moisture to prevent the bread from becoming too wet. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the grated zucchini and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: 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 Perfect Zucchini Bread
- Squeeze the Zucchini: Removing excess moisture from the grated zucchini is key to achieving the right texture. Too much moisture can make the bread overly dense or soggy.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light and tender one.
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe. You don’t need to peel the zucchini—just wash it thoroughly before grating.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Zucchini Bread: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Double Chocolate: Mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients and use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more chocolatey flavor.
- Coconut Zucchini Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup shredded coconut for added texture and a tropical twist.
- Healthy Zucchini Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread?
A: Yes! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: How do I store leftover zucchini bread?
A: Store leftover zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep in mind that refrigeration may make the bread slightly denser.
Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Absolutely! Divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is a delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a sweet and satisfying treat. The combination of moist zucchini, warm spices, and rich chocolate chips makes it a delightful bread that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s easy to make, versatile, and a great way to use up extra zucchini. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures!