Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Zucchini bread never tasted so delightful! This Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a rich, moist treat that will surprise your taste buds. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your chocolate cravings. With its decadent texture and flavor, this loaf is ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent snack any time of the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and zucchini creates a rich taste that is irresistible.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the grated zucchini, this bread stays wonderfully moist and tender.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with nuts, or even as a base for ice cream sundaes!
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to introduce veggies into your children’s diet without them even noticing!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Chocolate Zucchini Bread, having the right tools makes all the difference. Below are essential items you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Loaf pan
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Ensures thorough blending of wet ingredients, creating a uniform batter.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for combining thick batters without damaging your bowls.
• Loaf pan: Gives shape to your bread for even baking and perfect slices.

Ingredients

Recipe video above. Zucchini? What zucchini? All I see is the most decadent, moist chocolate loaf you may ever have in your life!

For the Loaf

• 3 cups grated zucchini (2 large or 3 small) (Note 1)
• 1 3/4 cups (260g) flour, plain/all purpose
• 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably Dutch processed (Note 2)
• 1.5 tsp baking soda (bi-carbonate) (Note 3)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla essence
• 1 1/4 cup (275g) white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 100g / 7 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 300g / 10 oz dark chocolate, coarsely chopped (keep some larger chunks!) (Note 4)

How to Make Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180C/350F (160C fan). This ensures your bread bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease and line a large loaf pan measuring approximately 28 x 15 x 6.5 cm (11 x 6 x 2.5). Lining helps with easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Drain the Zucchini

Grab handfuls of grated zucchini and squeeze out excess liquid. Place it in a colander to drain while preparing the batter.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. Then add melted butter and vanilla essence, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until just combined; expect a thick batter!

Step 7: Add Zucchini and Chocolate

Fold in the drained zucchini and chopped dark chocolate into the batter until evenly mixed. The mixture will be quite thick but should become spreadable.

Step 8: Bake Your Bread

Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 45 minutes. Cover with foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean with melted chocolate streaks.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Allow the loaf to stand in the pan for about 15 minutes before removing it. Then cool on a rack for an additional ten minutes before slicing.

Step 10: Serve Warm

This bread is extra amazing served warm when you can enjoy melty chocolate bits inside—truly fudgy perfection!

How to Serve Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only delicious on its own, but it can also be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your chocolate loaf experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate flavor, making each bite more indulgent.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pairing your bread with vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates a delightful dessert that is both warm and cold at the same time.

Drizzled with Nut Butter

• A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds a nutty flavor and extra creaminess that complements the sweetness of the bread.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the chocolate and adds a pop of color.

Served as French Toast

• Slice the bread and dip it in an egg mixture to create decadent French toast. Top with syrup or fruit for an exciting breakfast twist.

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A simple dusting of powdered sugar over the top enhances presentation and adds just a touch more sweetness without overwhelming the dish.

How to Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Achieving the perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Zucchini – Fresh zucchini has more moisture and flavor, making your bread moist and tasty.
• Squeeze Out Excess Liquid – Removing excess moisture from zucchini prevents your bread from becoming soggy and ensures proper baking.
• Melt Butter Carefully – Melt butter gently to avoid burning; this keeps the flavor rich without any bitterness.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing just until combined helps maintain a tender texture; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Check for Doneness – Insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean (with melted chocolate streaks), your bread is ready!
• Cool Properly – Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a rack; this helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Zucchini Bread can enhance its flavors and create a more complete meal or snack. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Yogurt – Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and tang, making it a great counterpoint to the sweet bread.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides brightness and complements the richness of the chocolate.
3. Chia Seed Pudding – This healthy pudding can add texture and is easy to prepare ahead, making it an ideal companion for your bread.
4. Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola gives added texture and pairs well with any toppings you choose for your Chocolate Zucchini Bread.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream – For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream offers lightness along with tropical flavor notes.
6. Hot Cocoa or Coffee – Warm drinks like cocoa or coffee pair perfectly with chocolate flavors, enhancing your overall experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in the outcome of your Chocolate Zucchini Bread. Here are some pitfalls to sidestep:

• Not squeezing the zucchini: Failing to remove excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to a soggy loaf. Always squeeze out the liquid before adding it to the batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense bread. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Using old baking soda: Expired baking soda loses its potency, leading to poor rise and texture. Check the expiration date before using.
• Skipping the foil cover: Not covering your loaf with foil halfway through baking can lead to over-browning. Cover it to ensure even cooking while keeping it moist.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep slices separated with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on high until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chocolate Zucchini Bread:

How do I make Chocolate Zucchini Bread healthier?

You can replace some of the sugar with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition.

Can I add nuts to Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch and additional flavor.

What makes this Chocolate Zucchini Bread so moist?

The grated zucchini contributes moisture along with melted chocolate, making every bite rich and fudgy.

Is Chocolate Zucchini Bread suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze this bread! Just ensure it is wrapped properly to maintain freshness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, using different types of chocolate, or adjusting sweetness levels. It’s perfect as a snack or dessert. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!