Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a deliciously decadent treat that’s also a sneaky way to add some veggies into your diet, then this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just the thing! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this recipe, and every single time, it disappears faster than I can say “chocolate.” The combination of rich chocolate and tender zucchini makes for an incredibly moist bread that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight snack or a sweet addition to a family gathering. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand!

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not just about taste; it’s about the joy of baking something that everyone will love. Imagine slicing into that soft, chocolatey loaf and seeing those flecks of green zucchini—it’s almost like a surprise! Plus, the kids won’t even know they’re getting their veggies in such a delightful form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich chocolate flavor. It’s a hit at any age!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week.
• Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or spices for an extra twist.
• Healthy Twist on Dessert: Incorporating zucchini means you’re sneaking in some nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably have in your pantry right now. Let’s gather everything we need to whip up this delightful 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

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm twist.
• Go Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter.
• Swap the Cocoa: Experiment with different types of cocoa powder for varying flavors.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Greasing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray ensures that your bread releases easily once baked—a little prep goes a long way!

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. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the 2 eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup oil, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. This step creates a beautifully blended base for your bread—don’t worry if it looks a bit bubbly!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Stir the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until just combined. Then fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded zucchini and about 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your bread light and fluffy!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top before baking—it adds that delightful melty goodness!

Step 6: Bake

Bake your bread for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly—I promise you won’t be able to wait!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once it’s fully cooled down, slice it up and get ready to enjoy every rich bite!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini will provide the best moisture and flavor. Choose firm zucchinis without blemishes for optimal taste and texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while gentle mixing keeps it tender.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean; a few moist crumbs are okay!

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes and then on a wire rack ensures that it sets properly, making slicing easier and preventing it from becoming mushy.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to customize your bread. They can enhance flavors and add an exciting twist to each bite.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your treat even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes the bread look elegant.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some semisweet chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled loaf for an indulgent finish.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt makes an excellent side, adding protein and tanginess that complements the sweet bread beautifully.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with this chocolatey delight, making it a wonderful treat at breakfast or during afternoon tea.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the rich chocolate flavors, adding both color and nutrition to your plate.
• Nut Butter Spread: Try spreading almond or cashew butter on a warm slice for added creaminess and flavor. It’s a tasty way to elevate your snack!

With these serving suggestions, your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread will not only shine as a delicious treat but also impress your family and friends! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a fantastic option for meal prep! It stores well and can be made in advance, ensuring that you have a delectable treat ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place it in the refrigerator where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• If reheating an entire loaf, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

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. Keep in mind that the texture may be denser, but it will still be delicious!

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

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are fine, but raw batter indicates it needs more time in the oven.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Is there a vegan alternative for this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes! You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based butter substitute.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! It’s not only a wonderful way to sneak some veggies into your diet but also delivers rich chocolatey goodness that everyone will love. Enjoy every slice, share it with friends and family, and let me know how yours turns out. Happy baking!