A moist and decadent chocolate zucchini bread that combines the richness of cocoa with the subtle sweetness of zucchini, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Servings 8servings
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1 ½cupsall-purpose floursifted
½cupunsweetened cocoa powdersifted
1teaspoonbaking soda
½teaspoonbaking powder
½teaspoonsalt
1teaspoonground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
1cupgranulated sugar
½cupbrown sugarpacked
½cupvegetable oilor melted coconut oil
2largeeggsroom temperature
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1 ½cupszucchinigrated, excess moisture squeezed out
Optional Add-ins
½cupchocolate chipssemi-sweet or dark
½cupwalnutschopped, optional
Method
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly.
Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, and optionally line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to incorporate air, which helps the bread rise.
Stir in the vanilla extract and grated zucchini, mixing until just combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.
If using, fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts at this stage.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Transfer the bread to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps to set the texture and makes it easier to cut.
For best results, use fresh zucchini and ensure it is well grated. Squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the bread from becoming too wet. This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.