Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful way to incorporate veggies into your desserts, this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is your answer! It’s rich, chocolatey, and so incredibly moist, you won’t believe it has zucchini in it. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just delicious; it also makes for an excellent snack or breakfast option. Picture this: a cozy morning with a warm slice of chocolate bread and a cup of coffee. Sounds perfect, right?

What makes this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread stand out is its versatility. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a family gathering, this treat will surely impress everyone around the table. Plus, it disappears quickly, so be prepared to make another loaf!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip this up in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich chocolate flavor—no one will suspect there are veggies hidden inside!
• Make ahead: This bread stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or spices to suit your taste—it’s your creation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this delicious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread to life. Each item plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of chocolatey goodness and moist texture.

For the Bread

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 1/4 cup canola oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups packed shredded zucchini
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or 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 a warm spice note.
• Swap the oil: Experiment with different oils like avocado oil for a unique flavor profile.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. Preheating ensures that your bread bakes evenly, giving you that lovely rise and texture we all crave.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt until combined. This step is essential because mixing the dry ingredients first prevents clumps in your batter later on.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine the eggs, melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix everything until smooth. This helps create an airy batter that leads to our moist bread.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to stir those dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in the shredded zucchini and three-quarters of the chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender crumb!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle those remaining chocolate chips on top. This adds an extra layer of chocolaty goodness right where everyone wants it!

Step 6: Bake

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out mostly clean. The aroma wafting through your home will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool helps set its structure before slicing into that rich goodness. Enjoy your homemade Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread with friends or savor each bite yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the best Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread ever!

• Grate Zucchini Finely: The finer you grate the zucchini, the more it blends into the batter. This ensures a smoother texture and allows the zucchini to contribute moisture without being noticeable.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs that are at room temperature helps to create a better emulsion with the other wet ingredients, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread, while gentle mixing keeps it light and tender.

• Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. A toothpick should come out mostly clean; a few moist crumbs are okay!

• Let it Cool: After baking, let your bread cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This helps it set properly and makes it easier to remove without breaking apart.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be as fun as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to make your presentation pop.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and enhances visual appeal without overwhelming the chocolatey goodness.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some semisweet chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled bread for an indulgent finishing touch that highlights its rich flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries such as strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread and provides a pop of color on your plate.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. Its light texture complements the dense richness of the bread perfectly.

• Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt brings creaminess and balances out the deep chocolate flavors with its slight tang. It’s also great for breakfast!

• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pairing this bread with a cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an inviting treat, perfect for leisurely mornings or afternoon snack breaks.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread will not only taste delicious but also look irresistible! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here are some practical tips on how to keep your delicious creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Freezing

• Slice the bread first for easy serving later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• If reheating the whole loaf, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up as you whip up this delightful treat!

Can I use something other than zucchini in Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with shredded carrots or even mashed bananas for a different flavor and texture.

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

Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded zucchini before adding it to the batter. This helps maintain that luscious, moist texture!

What if I don’t have Dutch process cocoa?

You can use unsweetened cocoa powder instead; however, Dutch process cocoa gives a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that unsweetened cocoa will result in a slightly different taste.

Can I add nuts to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Certainly! Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent additions. Just fold them into the batter along with the chocolate chips!

How long does Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, it can last up to 3 days. Refrigerated, it will stay fresh for about a week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s not only a fantastic way to indulge your sweet tooth but also sneak some veggies into your diet. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every slice and come back to share how yours turned out!