This Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread is a delightful treat that will leave your taste buds wanting more! With its moist texture, fragrant spices, and crunchy walnuts, it’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this bread adds a touch of comfort to any occasion. The combination of fresh zucchini and rich nuts makes it unique and irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: This bread is packed with moisture thanks to the grated zucchini, ensuring every slice is tender and soft.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up this delicious loaf in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at brunch, enjoy it as a snack, or gift it to friends—this bread suits every event!
- Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or other nuts to customize your loaf.
- Healthy Twist: Incorporating zucchini adds nutrients without compromising on flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To create the Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing these in advance will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan (9-inch)
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and proper structure for your bread.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep dry and wet ingredients organized for easy blending.
- Whisk: A whisk combines ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even mixture without lumps.
Ingredients
This Zucchini Walnut Bread is the BEST I’ve tried! Super moist, tender and soft with plenty of spice and crunchy walnuts in every bite!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1/8 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup oil
– 1¼ cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
– 3 eggs
– 2½ cups grated zucchini
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
How to Make Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9 loaf pan with cooking spray. If you prefer, you can use two smaller loaf pans to avoid overflow. Place them on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground cloves
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
1 cup oil
1¼ cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
3 eggs
Blend these ingredients until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Mix until just blended; patches of flour should still be visible.
Step 5: Fold in Zucchini and Walnuts
Gently fold in:
2½ cups grated zucchini
1 cup chopped walnuts
Be careful not to over-mix as this can lead to tough bread.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s). Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes or until the top is light golden brown. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean or with moist crumbs—not wet batter.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delicious journey with this Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread!
How to Serve Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
This delicious Zucchini Walnut Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some creative ideas to enhance your experience.
Toasted with Butter
- Toast a slice and spread it with creamy butter for a warm, comforting treat that highlights the spices.
Cream Cheese Spread
- Pair the bread with a rich cream cheese spread flavored with herbs or honey for an indulgent breakfast option.
Coffee Companion
- Serve slices alongside your morning coffee or tea. The flavors of the bread complement both beverages beautifully.
Sweetened Yogurt Dip
- Create a simple yogurt dip by mixing plain yogurt with a bit of honey and vanilla. This refreshing dip adds a nice contrast to the sweet bread.
Fruit Salad Side
- Serve with a bowl of fresh fruit salad. The refreshing taste of fruits balances the richness of the bread.
Ice Cream Sandwich
- For a fun dessert, use two slices of Zucchini Walnut Bread to make an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor for an extra special treat!
How to Perfect Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
To achieve the perfect loaf of Zucchini Walnut Bread, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you get that moist texture and full flavor every time you bake.
Use Fresh Zucchini: Grate fresh zucchini just before using it to retain moisture and flavor in your bread.
Do Not Overmix: Gently fold ingredients together to avoid tough bread. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the texture and makes cutting easier.
Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
Enjoying your Zucchini Walnut Bread is even better with some tasty sides. Here are some delightful dish options that pair well with this delicious bread.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, enhancing the flavors of the bread.
Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey brings out the sweetness in the zucchini walnut bread and adds a lovely shine.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness for a satisfying breakfast.
Cottage Cheese: A bowl of cottage cheese offers high protein while complementing the spiced flavors in your bread.
Mixed Nuts: Serve a small bowl of mixed nuts as a crunchy side that adds texture and nutrition alongside your slices.
Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can add moisture and sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and you still see some flour.
- Not draining the zucchini: Excess moisture from the zucchini can make your bread soggy. Squeeze out some moisture using a clean kitchen towel before adding it to the batter.
- Using old baking soda/powder: Expired leavening agents won’t give your bread enough rise. Always check the expiration date before use for best results.
- Skipping the greasing step: If you forget to grease your loaf pans, your bread can stick and break apart when you try to remove it. Use cooking spray generously to prevent sticking.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bread. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Make sure the bread is completely cool before sealing it in the container.
Freezing Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
- Wrap slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making the Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread, you’re in the right place!
How can I add more flavor to my zucchini walnut bread?
You can experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger, or even add chocolate chips for an extra treat.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can use applesauce instead of oil for a healthier option or swap walnuts for pecans if preferred.
What is the best way to store leftover zucchini walnut bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Is there a gluten-free version of Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends that work well for baking.
Final Thoughts
The Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, spices, or even chocolate chips based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be delighted by its moist texture and flavor!
Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread
Indulge in the delightful experience of our Best Ever Zucchini Walnut Bread, a moist and flavorful treat that will satisfy your cravings any time of day. This homemade loaf features a perfect blend of fresh zucchini, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant spices, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, dessert, or a wholesome snack. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this comforting bread is sure to impress. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe invites you to explore variations like adding chocolate chips or other nuts to customize your loaf. Enjoy each slice warm with butter or cream cheese for an added touch of indulgence!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup oil
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 eggs
- 2½ cups grated zucchini
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, blend oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended.
- Gently fold in grated zucchini and walnuts without overmixing.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 86g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or swapping walnuts for pecans. Ensure your zucchini is grated just before use to retain moisture.
