Chocolate Zucchini Bread

This easy Chocolate Zucchini Bread will remind you of your favorite chocolate cake! It’s moist, rich, and packed with a hidden veggie that makes it perfect for any occasion, from brunch to dessert. Plus, the delightful blend of cocoa and zucchini creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Moist: The addition of zucchini keeps this bread incredibly moist, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up this treat.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—this bread fits any time of day!
• Hidden Veggie Boost: Sneaking in zucchini not only adds moisture but also provides nutrients without compromising taste.
• Freezes Well: Bake a batch ahead of time and freeze for later enjoyment; simply thaw before slicing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Chocolate Zucchini Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 9-by-5-inch loaf pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of the bread from the pan without sticking.
• Loaf pan: The perfect size for baking bread evenly, giving it a nice shape.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the bread to cool it evenly.

Ingredients

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

For the Bread

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 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
• 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: Prepare 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 until just combined. Do not overmix. Gently fold in the shredded zucchini along with 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. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (some melted chocolate chips are okay).

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire cooling rack. Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and carefully remove from the pan. Allow it to cool on the rack until slightly warm before cutting into slices.

Storage Notes:

If using coconut oil, ensure it is melted and slightly cooled before adding to your mixture. The bread will keep on the counter wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to one month. Defrost before slicing.

How to Serve Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate zucchini bread is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or for dessert, there are plenty of creative ideas to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Slices served with seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing touch.

As a Breakfast Option

• Enjoy toasted slices topped with a smear of nut butter for a satisfying breakfast.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve warm chocolate zucchini bread with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.

Pairing with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Enhance the chocolate experience by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice.

How to Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

To ensure your chocolate zucchini bread comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Grate fresh zucchini just before using for optimal moisture and flavor.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the bread is done; it should come out mostly clean with some melted chocolate chips.

• Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack for better structure.

• Store Correctly: Wrap in plastic wrap to keep moisture in, extending freshness on the counter for up to 4 days.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with chocolate zucchini bread can enhance its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances sweetness.

2. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the dense bread.

3. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the chocolate flavors beautifully.

4. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside crunchy granola for added texture and nutrition.

5. Chia Seed Pudding: Light and healthy chia pudding makes an excellent pairing for dessert lovers.

6. Cream Cheese Spread: A lightly sweetened cream cheese spread adds richness and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chocolate zucchini bread can be simple, but there are common missteps that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can lead to uneven mixing and a denser texture. Always use room temperature eggs for better integration.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your bread tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not squeezing out excess moisture from zucchini: Excess moisture can make the bread soggy. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding it to the batter.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into hot bread can cause it to fall apart. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes for better slicing.
• Using expired baking soda: Old baking soda won’t give enough lift to your bread. Always check the expiration date for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chocolate zucchini bread in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It will keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Reheating Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chocolate zucchini bread:

What makes chocolate zucchini bread so moist?

The addition of shredded zucchini provides natural moisture, making this bread delightfully rich and tender.

Can I substitute other flours in chocolate zucchini bread?

Yes! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends, but this may change the texture slightly.

How do I know when my chocolate zucchini bread is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few melted chocolate chips on it.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts or pecans gives a delightful crunch. You could also top it with additional chocolate chips.

Final Thoughts

This chocolate zucchini bread is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich flavor and moist texture, it’s perfect as a snack or dessert. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful twist on traditional zucchini bread!