Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your diet, then let me introduce you to my favorite treat: Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! This recipe has been a cherished staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. The combination of rich chocolate and tender zucchini creates a moist loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved recipe!

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only scrumptious but also incredibly versatile. It’s great for busy weeknights when you need something quick or for family gatherings where everyone will be fighting over the last slice. Let’s dive into this delightful chocolatey goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this bread comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves chocolate! This is a sneaky way to get kids (and adults) excited about eating their veggies.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for later—perfect for busy mornings!
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to swap in different oils or add-ins like nuts or spices to make it your own.
• Irresistible Flavor: Rich chocolate and moist zucchini come together for a taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is as easy as pie! You likely have most of them already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-Ins

• 1 1/2 cups packed shredded zucchini
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to consider next time you whip up this delicious bread:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to give your bread a warm, spicy kick.
• Make It Healthier: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
• Try Different Chips: Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a unique twist.

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 is important so that the bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, combine the eggs, melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth—this step helps blend all the flavors together before adding the dry mix.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Carefully stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then fold in the shredded zucchini and three-quarters of the chocolate chips gently—it’s okay if there are still some flour streaks; overmixing can lead to dense bread!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top; they will melt slightly while baking and create an extra chocolaty crust.

Step 6: Bake

Bake your zucchini bread for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean—just a few crumbs are okay!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled slightly, slice it up and enjoy your deliciously moist Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread!

With such simple steps and delightful flavors, I hope this recipe becomes as much of a favorite in your home as it has in mine! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Creating the perfect Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is easier than you think—just follow these helpful tips!

• Grate Zucchini Finely: The finer you grate your zucchini, the better it will blend into the batter. This ensures a more uniform texture and makes the zucchini virtually undetectable to picky eaters!

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs that are at room temperature helps them mix more evenly with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter bread.

• Do Not Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle!

• Store Properly: To keep your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after it cools. It can last for up to a week at room temperature or even longer in the fridge.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch, while spices like cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

When it comes to serving your delicious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread, there are plenty of creative ideas to make it even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra semisweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the top for an indulgent finish.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad pairs beautifully with this rich bread, balancing its sweetness with bright flavors.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh berries alongside your zucchini bread for a wholesome breakfast or snack.
• Nut Butter: Serve slices with almond or peanut butter spread on top for added protein and flavor.
• Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the chocolatey goodness of this bread, making it a delightful treat any time of day.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your scrumptious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your bread fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely after baking.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator where it will last about a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
• For quick warming, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds per slice.
• Alternatively, place slices in an oven set to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

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

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are okay, but if there’s wet batter, it needs more time.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite nuts or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost. Just be sure not to exceed 1 cup total additional mix-ins for best results.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use flax eggs as a substitute; mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and let sit until thickened.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet cravings while sneaking in some veggies. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as a snack throughout the week, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!