Healthy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Let me take you on a culinary journey. Picture this: a slice of warm zucchini bread, fresh from the oven, slightly toasted, a dollop of butter melting into its crevices. Or perhaps you prefer it plain, with the crunch of walnuts adding a surprise.

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Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 2

Total Time: 2 10

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Healthy Zucchini Bread Recipe

Servings:

Calories: 156kcal

Equipment

Box grater
Parchment paper

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat flour or spelt flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cups zucchini loosely packed
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
3/4 cup pure maple syrup or raw honey
1 large egg lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Zest of 1 small orange
1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first – preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your bread bakes evenly. A hot oven is key to getting that perfect rise. While it warms up, you can prepare your ingredients!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Next, grab a 9x5-inch loaf pan and lightly grease it. You could use cooking spray, olive oil, or even line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients. This includes the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.

Step 4: Grate the Zucchini

Now, it’s zucchini time! Grate your zucchini using a medium or coarse grater. I suggest not squeezing out the moisture; this keeps your bread beautifully moist.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

vanilla extract, and orange zest. Use a spatula to mix until well blended. Then, fold in the grated zucchini.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet. Stir just until combined. Avoid over-mixing; this will help keep your bread tender.

Step 7: Add In Optional Nuts

If you’re adding walnuts, now’s the time! Gently fold them into the mixture.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. When you hear it calling your name, remove it!

Step 9: Let It Cool

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, or you may end up with mushy bread!In a large bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup or honey, beaten egg,

Notes

Use fresh zucchini: Look for firm zucchinis without any soft spots. This ensures the best flavor.
Reserve some zucchini for topping: If you want a little extra touch, grate some zucchini and sprinkle it on top before baking.
Experiment with sweeteners: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup or honey. You may find the applesauce provides ample moisture.
Add spices: Consider adding a bit of ginger or cloves for a spicier profile.
Cool before slicing: Allow the bread to cool sufficiently before slicing to avoid it crumbling.

Nutrition

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