Chocolate Zucchini Bread

This easy Chocolate Zucchini Bread will remind you of your favorite chocolate cake! It’s a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the moistness of zucchini, making it perfect for snacks, dessert, or even breakfast. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual coffee chats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa and semisweet chocolate chips creates a deliciously indulgent taste.
• Moist Texture: Shredded zucchini adds moisture, ensuring this bread stays soft and tender for days.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as a snack or dessert, or serve it with coffee for a delightful breakfast treat.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can bake this delicious bread.
• Freezes Well: Make a double batch and freeze some for later enjoyment—it’s just as tasty after freezing!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Chocolate Zucchini Bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (9-by-5-inch)
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect bread shape.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to easily combine dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your mixture for a lighter texture in your finished bread.

Ingredients

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

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 1/4 cup canola oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Main Ingredients

• 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: Combine 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 gently; don’t overmix. Fold in the shredded zucchini until just combined. Add 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 of the bread. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean—you might have some melted chocolate chips on it; that is fine.

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire cooling rack. Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges of the bread and carefully remove it from the pan. Allow it to cool on the wire rack until slightly warm.

Step 7: Serve and Store

Cut into slices and serve. If you use coconut oil, ensure it is melted and slightly cooled before mixing in. This bread will keep on the counter wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; cool completely, wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to one month. Defrost before slicing.

How to Serve Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate zucchini bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple snack or a more elaborate dessert, there are plenty of serving options to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas complement the bread’s texture and bring additional sweetness.

Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: A light layer of whipped cream creates a creamy topping that balances the dense bread.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider vanilla or chocolate-flavored whipped cream for an extra treat.

Serve Warm with Nut Butter

• Almond Butter: Spread almond butter on warm slices for nutty richness.
• Peanut Butter: A classic pairing that adds protein and makes for a satisfying snack.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Melted Chocolate: A warm drizzle of melted chocolate enhances the indulgence of this dessert.
• Caramel Sauce: For a different flavor twist, drizzle caramel for added sweetness.

How to Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

To ensure your chocolate zucchini bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh zucchini: Whenever possible, use fresh, firm zucchini for the best moisture content and flavor.
• Shred zucchini finely: Finely shredding the zucchini helps it incorporate well into the batter without leaving large chunks.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet to maintain a tender texture; overmixing can make the bread dense.
• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean, with only a few melted chocolate bits.
• Cool properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps maintain its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate zucchini bread can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess, making for a balanced breakfast option.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and vibrancy against the rich chocolate taste.
3. Cottage Cheese: High in protein, cottage cheese offers a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet bread.
4. Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream serves as an indulgent side that takes your dessert experience up a notch.
5. Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting snack time.
6. Nut Trail Mix: A handful of nut trail mix offers crunchiness and healthy fats, balancing out the softness of the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results with your chocolate zucchini bread, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Using too much flour – Measuring flour incorrectly can lead to a dense loaf. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Not wringing out zucchini – Excess moisture from the zucchini can make your bread soggy. Squeeze out any excess liquid before adding it to the batter.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can result in tough bread. Combine ingredients just until they are mixed for a lighter texture.
• Ignoring baking time – Each oven is different. Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Skipping cooling time – Cutting into warm bread can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat and cover, warming them gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chocolate zucchini bread.

How do I ensure my Chocolate Zucchini Bread rises well?

Properly measuring your ingredients, especially baking soda, and ensuring your eggs are at room temperature can help your bread rise beautifully.

Can I use frozen zucchini in my Chocolate Zucchini Bread recipe?

Yes! Just thaw and drain any excess moisture from frozen zucchini before using it in your recipe.

What makes this Chocolate Zucchini Bread so moist?

The shredded zucchini adds moisture while keeping the bread light, complemented by oil and butter.

Can I customize my Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Definitely! You can add nuts, spices, or even swap some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This chocolate zucchini bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Enjoy it as a snack or dessert! Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or spices, to make it truly yours. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!