Chocolate Zucchini Bread

One Bowl Chocolate Zucchini Bread—a classic that’s been a favorite of mine for a long time and now I am sharing it with you! This easy chocolate zucchini bread recipe makes two moist and delicious, chocolatey loaves of bread that’s chock full of chocolate chips in each bite! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this dish is ideal for sharing or enjoying on your own. The standout feature of this recipe is its simplicity in preparation while delivering rich flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Each slice is loaded with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
• Moist Texture: The addition of zucchini keeps the bread moist without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert.
• Great for Sharing: Bake two loaves—keep one and share the other with friends or neighbors!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf tins
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf tins: These are crucial for shaping your bread into perfect loaves that bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: A large bowl is essential for combining ingredients effortlessly without spills.
• Whisk: This tool helps incorporate air into the batter, ensuring a light texture in your bread.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Chocolate Zucchini Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Batter

• 2 cups Granulated Sugar (or Pure Cane Organic Sugar)
• 3 Large Eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil
• 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Baking Powder
• 1 tsp Baking Soda
• 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg

For the Zucchini

• 2 cups Grated Zucchini (do not drain excess liquid) (approximately 3 medium zucchinis)

For Topping

• 12 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (divided; 8 oz or 227 grams for the bread mixture, remaining 4 oz or 113 grams for topping)

How to Make Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Adjust the oven rack to the second level position and preheat the oven to 350ºF.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Tins

Generously spray 2 bread loaf tins with a flour-based baking spray or grease with vegetable shortening and lightly flour. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large-size bowl, whisk together:
1. Granulated sugar,
2. Eggs,
3. Vegetable oil,
4. Vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Unsweetened cocoa powder,
3. Salt,
4. Baking powder,
5. Baking soda,
6. Ground cinnamon,
7. Ground nutmeg.
Mix until everything is combined.

Step 5: Add Zucchini and Chocolate Chips

With a spoon, stir in:
1. Grated zucchini,
2. 8 ounces of chocolate chips.

Step 6: Fill Loaf Tins

Evenly divide the batter into the two prepared loaf tins. Top with remaining 4 ounces of chocolate chips.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Cool the chocolate zucchini bread loaves in the pans for approximately 5-10 minutes before removing them from the tins and transferring them to cooling racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Zucchini Bread!

How to Serve Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Toasted with Butter

• A warm slice of chocolate zucchini bread topped with a pat of butter enhances its rich flavors and adds a creamy texture.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pairing the bread with fresh berries or sliced bananas provides a refreshing contrast to the dense chocolate flavor.

Cream Cheese Spread

• A light spread of cream cheese adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness of the chocolate zucchini bread beautifully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey gives an extra touch of sweetness and works well to balance out the flavors in each slice.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Use two slices of chocolate zucchini bread to create a sandwich filled with your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert treat.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your slice with whipped cream for a light and airy addition that enhances the overall indulgence of the dish.

How to Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

To make sure your Chocolate Zucchini Bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh grated zucchini will provide more moisture and flavor than older zucchinis, improving the overall texture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results in baking. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to denser bread instead of the desired fluffy texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 50 minutes. An inserted toothpick should come out clean when it’s ready.
• Cool Completely: Allow the loaves to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain their structure and moisture.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Zucchini Bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the bread.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the sweet bread.
3. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter offers a protein boost and complements the chocolate flavor when spread on top.
4. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors of chocolate zucchini bread, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon snacks.
5. Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese on a platter alongside your bread for an elegant touch.
6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggie sticks served with hummus provide a healthy contrast to the sweet bread.
7. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding is not only nutritious but also serves as a refreshing side dish that pairs well with chocolate treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Zucchini Bread, it’s easy to make mistakes that might affect the texture and flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much flour – Measuring flour incorrectly can lead to a dense loaf. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Not grating the zucchini finely – Large pieces of zucchini can result in uneven baking. Use a box grater or food processor to finely grate your zucchini for better integration.
• Skipping the chocolate chips – Chocolate chips add sweetness and richness. Don’t skip them; they’re essential for that gooey, chocolatey goodness!
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can cause the bread to be tough. Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Not letting it cool properly – Cutting into the bread too soon can make it fall apart. Allow it to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For best results, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Wrap individual slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Zucchini Bread.

How do I make my Chocolate Zucchini Bread healthier?

You can substitute half of the granulated sugar with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I use frozen zucchini in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen grated zucchini. Just ensure it’s thawed and excess water is squeezed out before adding it to your batter.

What variations can I try with Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or mix in different types of chocolate chips such as dark chocolate or white chocolate for a twist!

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

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is ready!

Can I double this Chocolate Zucchini Bread recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure you have enough loaf pans, or bake in batches if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or other spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!