Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that is both indulgent and sneaky healthy, then you’ve come to the right place! This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich with chocolatey goodness while incorporating zucchini in a way that no one will even notice. Seriously, it’s like a hug in loaf form! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe ensures that you can enjoy a delicious slice any time of day.

What I love most about this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is how versatile it is. You can whip it up as an afternoon snack, serve it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for dessert, or even enjoy it with your morning coffee. Plus, it keeps well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Trust me; this will quickly become a household favorite that disappears slice by slice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delightful bread baking in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the chocolatey flavor, making it perfect for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Delight: This bread stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
• Sneaky Veggies: Incorporating zucchini means you’re getting some veggies without even trying!
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up ingredients for fun variations that suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a breeze! You’ll find that they are all simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this lovely treat anytime you’re in the mood for something sweet.

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and textures to make this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread your own.

• Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Spice It Up: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add an aromatic twist to your loaf.
• Swap the Cocoa: Use unsweetened cocoa powder if you prefer a lighter chocolate flavor.
• Fruit Boost: Add in some mashed bananas for added moisture and sweetness—yum!

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray is essential too—this will help your bread come out perfectly 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 combines your dry ingredients evenly and helps distribute the leavening agents—leading to an amazing rise in your bread.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, mix together 2 eggs, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/4 cup of oil, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. It’s important to ensure everything here blends well; this creates that luscious base full of flavor!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then fold in the shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Don’t overmix—this keeps your bread tender! The zucchini adds moisture without affecting the chocolate flavor.

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips on top. This final touch adds extra chocolaty goodness right where you want it!

Step 6: Bake

Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end; ovens can vary!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into thick pieces and enjoy your deliciously moist Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Creating the perfect Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bread turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, in-season zucchini will provide the best flavor and moisture. Avoid using older or overly soft zucchini, as they can impact the texture of your bread.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just blended. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread, while a gentle hand keeps it light and fluffy!

• Let It Cool: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack prevents it from breaking apart and helps maintain its beautiful shape.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. These additions can bring new dimensions to your bread while complementing the chocolate beautifully.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary significantly, so start checking your bread at 50 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

When it comes to enjoying your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread, there are plenty of ways to present this delectable treat that will impress family and friends alike. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the rich chocolate flavor.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free twist, top with whipped coconut cream for added creaminess that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• Fresh Berries: Serve slices alongside fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate flavors in your zucchini bread, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness to your meal, providing vitamins and natural sweetness that complements the richness of the bread.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a wholesome side that contrasts nicely with the dense texture of the zucchini bread.
• Nut Butter: Serve slices spread with almond or peanut butter for added protein and healthy fats, making this treat even more satisfying!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread will be not only delicious but also beautifully presented. Enjoy each slice knowing you’ve created something truly special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it for later, making it a convenient treat for busy weekdays or unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread 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 overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For the whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap it in aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of flour in my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends. Just note that the texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist!

Can I add nuts or spices to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or spices like cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a comforting way to sneak some veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy each slice as a delightful snack or dessert, and don’t forget to share with family and friends (if you can!). Happy baking!