Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your day, then this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just the recipe for you! This delightful bread combines the richness of chocolate with the subtle moisture of zucchini, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. It’s become a favorite in my household because it’s not only scrumptious but also incredibly easy to whip up.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be made in no time and will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate some hidden greens without anyone being the wiser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just a few easy steps, you’ll have fresh bread in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich chocolate flavor!
• Make-ahead option: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Veggie-packed goodness: Sneak in zucchini without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or spices for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You may already have most of them in your pantry!

• 1 c all-purpose flour
• 1/2 c Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/4 c unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 1/4 c canola (vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 c packed light brown sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 c packed shredded zucchini
• 1 c semisweet chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Add nuts: For a delightful crunch, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut oil for butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips if needed.
• Change the sweetness: Experiment with different types of sugar, like coconut sugar or maple syrup!

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Greasing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray ensures that your bread will slide right out when it’s done baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. This creates a nice base for your bread and ensures that everything blends evenly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together 2 eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup oil, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. This step brings together all those rich flavors that make this bread so special.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then fold in the shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread light and fluffy!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan and sprinkle on the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips. This creates a lovely topping that melts into gooey goodness as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The luscious aroma of chocolate will fill your kitchen during this time!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your chocolatey delight!

You’ll find that this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Making the perfect Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bread turns out wonderfully every time.

• Grate Zucchini Finely: Use a fine grater to shred your zucchini, which helps it blend seamlessly into the batter for a moist texture without any chunky bites.

• Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Before adding the shredded zucchini to your mixture, place it in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out to remove excess moisture. This prevents your bread from becoming too wet and ensures a perfect crumb.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Allow your eggs to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps them incorporate better into the batter, leading to a lighter and fluffier loaf.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle!

• Check for Doneness Early: Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. The toothpick test should come out mostly clean—some moist crumbs are okay!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving your delicious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your presentation and enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a sweet touch and makes your bread look extra inviting.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled bread for an indulgent finish that enhances the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and natural sweetness that balances the rich chocolate.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, complementing the sweetness of the bread while boosting its protein content.
• Nut Butter Spread: Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices for an extra layer of flavor and healthy fats that will keep you satisfied longer.
• Herbal Tea or Coffee: Pair with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy treat any time of day, enhancing the flavors of the chocolate in each bite.

Enjoy this scrumptious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread with friends, family, or even as a well-deserved solo snack! The combination of rich chocolate with subtle hints of zucchini will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch in advance. It’s a delightful treat that stays fresh and delicious, making it ideal for snacking or breakfast throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a quick heat-up, microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread:

Can I use other types of flour for Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just keep an eye on the texture; it may vary slightly.

How do I know when my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is done baking?

Your bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. Baking time may vary by oven, so check around the 50-minute mark.

What can I add to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Feel free to experiment! Chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or spices like cinnamon can enhance flavor. Just be mindful of the overall moisture content.

Is Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread healthy?

While it’s indulgent with chocolate, the inclusion of zucchini adds moisture and nutrients. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to bake this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! It’s not only delicious but also a sneaky way to incorporate veggies into your treats. Enjoy making this recipe and share it with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds! Happy baking!