Chocolate Zucchini Bread

One Bowl Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the health benefits of zucchini. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe yields two moist and delicious loaves brimming with chocolate chips. It’s an ideal way to use up garden-fresh zucchinis while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you keep both loaves or share one with a friend, this chocolate zucchini bread is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze.
• Moist and Flavorful: The addition of zucchini keeps the bread moist while adding nutrients.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, toasted, or as a base for ice cream.
• Perfect for Gifting: Bake extra loaves to share with family, friends, or neighbors.
• Kid-Friendly: A sneaky way to add vegetables to your kids’ diet without them noticing!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Chocolate Zucchini Bread, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Loaf tins (2)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy whisking of ingredients and promotes even mixing.
• Loaf tins: Properly greased loaf tins help achieve a perfect rise and prevent sticking.
• Cooling rack: Using a cooling rack helps the bread cool evenly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 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
• 2 cups Grated Zucchini (do not drain excess liquid) (approximately 3 medium zucchinis)
• 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 flour-based baking spray or grease with vegetable shortening and lightly flour. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix until everything is just combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Zucchini and Chocolate Chips

With a spoon, stir in the grated zucchini along with 8 ounces of chocolate chips until evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 6: Fill Tins and Bake

Evenly divide the batter into the prepared loaf tins. Top each loaf with the remaining 4 ounces of chocolate chips. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Your Bread

Allow the chocolate zucchini bread loaves to cool in their pans for approximately 5-10 minutes before removing them from the tins. Transfer them to cooling racks to cool completely before serving.

How to Serve Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate zucchini bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these serving suggestions will enhance its delightful flavors.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices of chocolate zucchini bread alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing and healthy touch.

Spread with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices for added protein and a delicious nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for an indulgent dessert option, perfect for special occasions.

As a Dessert Pairing

• Pair your chocolate zucchini bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that everyone will love.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Elevate your serving by drizzling melted chocolate sauce over the top, making it even more irresistible.

How to Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

To achieve the best results with your chocolate zucchini bread, follow these helpful tips to ensure moistness and flavor in every bite.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Use fresh, firm zucchinis for grating. This will enhance the moisture content and flavor of your bread.

• Don’t Drain the Zucchini: Keep the grated zucchini moist by not draining it. This helps maintain the bread’s tenderness and richness.

• Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for better mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and improves texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Instead, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off to prevent dense bread.

• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Chocolate zucchini bread pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some tasty options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess, balancing out the sweetness of the bread.

2. Cottage Cheese: Serve cottage cheese on the side for a protein-packed addition that enhances satiety without overpowering flavors.

3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of chocolate zucchini bread.

4. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers brightness and freshness that complements this treat perfectly.

5. Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a warm slice with your favorite coffee or tea creates a cozy experience ideal for breakfast or afternoon snack time.

6. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts adds crunch and healthy fats, making it an excellent balance to the soft texture of the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Zucchini Bread, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using wet zucchini: Make sure to measure the grated zucchini correctly without draining the excess liquid. This will help keep your bread moist.
• Skipping the eggs: Eggs are essential for binding and moisture. Ensure you use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
• Not checking doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the bread is done baking. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chocolate Zucchini Bread can last up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Chocolate Zucchini Bread, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use whole wheat flour for Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just be aware it may slightly alter the texture.

How do I prevent my Chocolate Zucchini Bread from being too dense?

Make sure not to overmix your batter and accurately measure your ingredients, especially the zucchini.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best as they balance sweetness with rich chocolate flavor. You could also try dark chocolate for a more intense taste!

How long does Chocolate Zucchini Bread last?

When stored properly, it can last up to a week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with hidden veggies. Its versatility allows for many customizations—try adding nuts, swapping chocolate types, or even mixing in some spices! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!