Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with a sneaky serving of veggies, then this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished go-to in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight dessert, a family gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this moist and tender bread is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The best part? This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it feel a little less guilty when you go back for that second slice. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a scrumptious loaf ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the chocolatey goodness, and they won’t even notice the zucchini!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This bread stores well and tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with nuts or spices to make it your own.
• Sneaky Veggie Boost: A clever way to include veggies in your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients will have you well on your way to baking up this delicious loaf!

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tailor it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra texture boost.
• Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
• Make it healthier: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Go dairy-free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and plant-based chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures even baking. While it warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray so that your delicious bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensures your bread rises perfectly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together 2 eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup oil, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture forms the base of our bread and adds moisture—essential for that tender crumb we love!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Carefully stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle here; overmixing can lead to dense bread. Next, fold in the shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup chocolate chips—this is where all that sneaky veggie action happens!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips on top. This extra layer of chocolate will create an irresistible topping as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a few crumbs clinging to it.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled slightly, slice into generous pieces and enjoy your chocolatey delight! Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread will surely be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some pro tips to ensure your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, young zucchini has a higher moisture content and a milder flavor, which helps keep your bread moist without an overpowering veggie taste.

• Don’t Skip the Shredding: Shredding the zucchini finely allows it to blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring you don’t bite into large chunks while still enjoying the moisture it brings.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. If a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect; too clean means overbaking!

• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing prevents it from becoming gummy and helps maintain its tender texture.

• Wrap It Up: If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious treat that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful touch and makes the bread look like a fancy dessert.

• Top with Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve slices with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for added richness and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds a bright, tart contrast to the rich sweetness of the chocolate bread.

• Yogurt: A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative) pairs perfectly—its tanginess complements the sweet, chocolatey flavors beautifully.

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea is the ideal beverage pairing. The warmth enhances the chocolate experience while adding comfort to your snack time.

• Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve warm slices with vanilla or dairy-free ice cream. The melting ice cream over warm bread creates a delightful dessert sensation.

Enjoy every slice of your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread, whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready whenever you need a quick snack or dessert.

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, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy portioning later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

• For the best flavor and texture, reheat slices in a toaster oven until warm.
• Alternatively, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
• Enjoy warm with a pat of butter or your favorite spread!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, this may result in a denser texture. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter loaf.

How can I make my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter loaf, feel free to increase the amount of brown sugar by an additional 1/4 cup. Just be mindful that this may slightly alter the texture.

Can I add nuts to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans work wonderfully as an addition. Just fold them into the batter along with the zucchini and chocolate chips.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s served as breakfast, dessert, or simply a sweet snack, it’s bound to become a favorite. Happy baking!