Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your treats, look no further than this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! This recipe is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating a wonderful balance of rich chocolate and the subtle moisture of zucchini. It’s so good that you might just find yourself reaching for another slice!

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this bread is sure to be a hit. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast with coffee, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up. Plus, the best part? You can feel good about indulging in something that includes hidden veggies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you’ll have this delightful bread ready in no time.
• Deliciously Moist: The zucchini adds moisture, making each slice tender and flavorful.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the chocolatey goodness without noticing the veggies!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it anytime—breakfast, snack time, or dessert; it fits every occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it for a quick treat throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! They’re all simple and wholesome, bringing together the perfect blend of flavors. Here’s what you need to make your own Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread:

• 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

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or pantry supplies. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warming spices that complement the chocolate beautifully.
• Change the Oil: Experiment with different oils like avocado oil or melted coconut oil for varying flavors.
• Incorporate Fruits: Add some mashed bananas or applesauce to enhance sweetness naturally.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Greasing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray ensures that your bread comes out perfectly every time without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. This step is crucial because mixing dry ingredients evenly helps distribute the leavening agent for even rising.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, combine the eggs, melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients well creates a lovely base that blends perfectly with the dry ingredients later on.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle here! Then fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens—the zucchini adds moisture while keeping the chocolate flavor front and center.

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top; they create a delightful chocolaty crust as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Place your loaf in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—when it comes out mostly clean, you’re good to go!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked to perfection, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. After cooling completely (if you can wait!), slice your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread and enjoy this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Making this delicious Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be even more enjoyable with a few helpful tips!

• Use freshly grated zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and flavor. If you use pre-packaged or frozen zucchini, it might not have the same texture or taste.
• Squeeze out excess moisture: After grating the zucchini, lightly squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel to remove extra liquid. This helps avoid a soggy bread and ensures that the chocolate flavor shines through.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness. These ingredients can enhance the overall flavor and texture of your bread.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary greatly, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean to indicate it’s done baking.
• Store properly: To keep your zucchini bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can stay fresh for several days, but I doubt it will last that long!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it visually appealing. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the chocolatey goodness.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt a bit of semisweet chocolate and drizzle it over the sliced bread for an indulgent look that promises even more chocolatey flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly, adding freshness and balance to your meal.
• Whipped coconut cream: Light and airy, whipped coconut cream offers a dairy-free alternative that pairs beautifully with the dense bread while adding a creamy texture.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or aromatic herbal tea makes for a delightful pairing that enhances the overall experience of enjoying your chocolate treat.
• Nut butter spread: Try serving slices with almond or sunflower seed butter on top for an extra layer of flavor and protein—perfect as a snack or breakfast option!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a loaf of Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread but a delightful experience that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a convenient snack or dessert option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating, where it can last for about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For larger portions, place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I substitute the cocoa powder in the Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! If you don’t have Dutch process cocoa on hand, unsweetened cocoa powder works just as well. The flavor will be slightly different but still delightful!

How can I adjust the sweetness of my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. Feel free to use less sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative that measures like sugar.

Can I add nuts to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition. Just fold them into the batter along with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Is this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! This zucchini bread is not only delicious but also provides a sneaky serving of veggies. Enjoy it with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful way to indulge your sweet tooth while sneaking in some vegetables. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it all by yourself, this recipe is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking!