Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate flavors with the goodness of veggies, then this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just for you! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen. It’s not only a fantastic way to sneak in some zucchini but also an indulgent dessert or snack that everyone will adore. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or bringing it to a family gathering, this bread is sure to impress and disappear quickly.

The beauty of Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread lies in its moist texture and deep chocolate taste. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it a cozy companion with a cup of tea or coffee any time of day. Plus, it’s a wonderful excuse to enjoy chocolate while feeling good about sneaking some veggies into your family’s diet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward and require minimal prep, perfect for bakers of all levels!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will love the chocolatey goodness—no one will even notice the zucchini!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert after dinner, this bread fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake it ahead of time and store it for quick snacks throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or spices to make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is part of the fun! For this recipe, you’ll need simple and wholesome items that you probably already have 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 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

One of the best aspects of this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is its flexibility! You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy flavors.
• Go Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter for a vegan option.
• Try Different Chocolates: Experiment with dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a unique twist!

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your bread starts baking at the right temperature from the get-go. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray so your delicious creation won’t stick!

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 step is crucial as it evenly distributes the dry ingredients ensuring consistent flavor throughout your bread!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the eggs, melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture provides moisture and richness to your bread. It’s important not to skip this step—smooth wet ingredients create an evenly baked loaf!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in the shredded zucchini and three-quarters of the chocolate chips. This gentle mixing helps keep your bread light and fluffy while incorporating those lovely chocolatey bits.

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the remaining quarter cup of chocolate chips on top for an extra indulgent touch. Who doesn’t love seeing those gooey chocolate chunks peeking out?

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven—watching closely is key!

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 enough to handle, slice away! Enjoy each rich piece as is or spread with nut butter for an extra treat!

Happy baking! I hope you enjoy making—and devouring—this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll ensure your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini provides the best moisture and flavor. Avoid using pre-packaged or frozen zucchini, as they may contain excess water which can affect the bread’s texture.

• Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: After shredding the zucchini, gently squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel to remove some of the moisture. This prevents the bread from becoming too dense and helps maintain that lovely light crumb.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add a handful of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. You could also include spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

• Store Properly: To keep your bread fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last up to five days—if it lasts that long!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and make it even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some semisweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the sliced bread for an indulgent touch.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt makes for a delicious pairing, adding protein and tanginess that complements the sweet bread beautifully.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chocolate.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy snack or breakfast experience.
• Nut Butter Spread: Spread almond butter or peanut butter on a slice for added protein and healthy fats—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the zucchini bread before freezing for easier portions.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply toast individual slices in a toaster or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For larger pieces, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions about making this delightful recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping it vegan-friendly.

How can I ensure my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread stays moist?

Using freshly shredded zucchini and not overmixing the batter will keep your bread moist. Also, be sure not to bake it too long; check it with a toothpick around the 50-minute mark.

Can I use other types of cocoa powder?

Absolutely! While Dutch process cocoa gives a rich flavor, you can also use unsweetened cocoa powder if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

What can I add to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Feel free to experiment by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread brings joy to your kitchen as much as it has brought mine! It’s a wonderful way to combine healthy veggies with indulgent chocolate flavors, making it suitable for any occasion. Enjoy every slice and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!