Zucchini Bread is a classic recipe that combines simplicity and rich flavors to create a moist, tender loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few easy steps, you can turn fresh zucchini into a delicious treat that’s great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
Deliciously Moist Zucchini Bread
If you’ve ever had zucchini bread before, you know it’s all about the moistness and light spice. This recipe takes the classic flavors and amplifies them with cinnamon, butter, and yogurt to keep every bite as rich and tender as possible. The best part? It’s made with everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen!
The secret to achieving that perfect moist texture is the grated zucchini, which not only adds moisture but also gives a subtle, earthy sweetness. Combined with cinnamon and a fluffy base of flour, eggs, and butter, this zucchini bread recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
No complicated steps or fancy equipment are required—just a simple loaf pan and some basic ingredients for a delightful, satisfying bread.
And it’s so easy to make!
Ingredients for the Best Zucchini Bread
A great zucchini bread comes down to simple, fresh ingredients that pack in flavor while keeping the texture moist. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create the best loaf of zucchini bread:
- Zucchini – The star of the show! You’ll need 1 2/3 cups of grated zucchini. It adds natural moisture and a subtle, earthy flavor that makes this bread incredibly soft and tender.
- Granulated Sugar – A cup of sugar balances out the slight earthiness of the zucchini and adds sweetness to every bite.
- Butter – A quarter cup of softened butter gives the bread a rich, buttery flavor. It also helps create a tender crumb.
- Low Fat Milk – Just 1/4 cup of milk helps to keep the batter moist while adding a bit of richness without making it too heavy.
- Plain Low-Fat Greek Yogurt – The yogurt works with the milk and eggs to provide moisture while adding a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- Eggs – Two large eggs bind everything together and add structure to the loaf.
- All-Purpose Flour – Two cups of flour give the bread the right balance of lightness and density.
- Baking Soda – You need 1 teaspoon of baking soda to help the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
- Cinnamon – One teaspoon of cinnamon gives the bread that warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the zucchini.
- Kosher Salt – Just a 1/2 teaspoon of salt enhances all the other flavors without making the bread taste salty.
How to Make the Best Zucchini Bread
Making this zucchini bread is as simple as mixing together a few ingredients, but there are some key steps to follow to make sure your loaf turns out perfectly every time. Follow this step-by-step guide for the best results:
- Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F to ensure even baking from the start.
- Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the sugar and butter on medium speed until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air, making the bread tender. Then, on low speed, add the grated zucchini, milk, yogurt, and eggs. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – While the mixer is on low, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Be sure to mix only until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the bread tough.
- Pour into Pan – Coat a 9×5 inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Zucchini Bread – Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool on a Wire Rack – Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain its texture and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Enjoy your perfectly moist and flavorful zucchini bread!
How Long To Bake Zucchini Bread
Baking zucchini bread to perfection is all about getting the timing right. The goal is to have a loaf that’s fully baked through, moist, and not overdone. Here’s a general guide to help you achieve that perfect loaf:
- Bake Time: The standard bake time for zucchini bread in a 9×5 inch loaf pan is about 1 hour at 350˚F.
- Testing for Doneness: To know if your zucchini bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Every oven can be a little different, so check your bread around the 50-minute mark just to be sure.
Storing Zucchini Bread
Zucchini bread stores really well, making it perfect for enjoying later or saving for quick breakfasts or snacks.
- Room Temperature: You can store the zucchini bread at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
- Refrigeration: To keep the bread fresh for a longer period, refrigerate it. It will stay good for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped or in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing Zucchini Bread: Zucchini bread freezes beautifully! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Bread
- Grate the Zucchini Finely: For the best texture, grate the zucchini finely. You don’t need to peel the zucchini, but make sure to remove any excess moisture by gently squeezing it with a paper towel.
- Do Not Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make the bread dense.
- Let it Cool: Allow the zucchini bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps the bread firm up and gives you cleaner slices.
With these tips, your zucchini bread will come out soft, flavorful, and perfectly moist every time!
PrintThe Best Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x
Description
Easy, moist, and packed with flavor—this zucchini bread recipe is a must-try! Made with fresh zucchini and a hint of cinnamon, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a delicious homemade treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 2/3 cups grated zucchini
- 1/4 cup low fat milk
- 1/4 cup plain low fat Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Coat a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the granulated sugar and softened butter on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Reduce the speed to low and add in the grated zucchini, milk, yogurt, and eggs. Mix until fully combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Slice and serve, or store for later use!
Notes
- Storing: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
- Extra Moisture: For the best texture, make sure to lightly squeeze any excess moisture from the grated zucchini before mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour