Description

Chocolate zucchini bread is a delicious, moist loaf that combines the richness of chocolate with the subtle addition of zucchini. Perfect as a breakfast, snack, or light dessert, this bread offers the indulgent taste of chocolate while sneaking in a healthy vegetable. The zucchini adds moisture to the bread without affecting the overall flavor, making it an ideal recipe for both chocoholics and those looking to add a nutritious twist to their baking. It’s simple to make, requiring basic ingredients, and offers plenty of opportunities for customization with add-ins like nuts or spices.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In a large bowl, mix together vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in grated zucchini and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool

Notes

Zucchini Texture: There’s no need to peel the zucchini unless you prefer it. The skin adds nutrients and doesn’t affect the flavor. Be sure to shred the zucchini finely for even distribution throughout the batter. Pat it dry with a towel to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
Customizations:
- Add-ins: Customize your bread with chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or even dried fruit for extra texture.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to the chocolate flavor, perfect for cozy, spiced variations.
- Sweetness Levels: Adjust the amount of sugar depending on your taste or substitute it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Moisture: The zucchini’s moisture content is key to this bread’s tender texture. Avoid overmixing the batter once the zucchini is added to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Storage: Store the bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can be refrigerated to extend its life to a week or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead option.
Serving Suggestions: Chocolate zucchini bread is versatile and can be served with a variety of pairings. Enjoy it plain, or for a decadent dessert, serve it with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream. Toasting it adds an extra layer of crunch and intensifies the chocolate flavor.