Zucchini Bread
Zucchini bread is a type of sweet bread that includes shredded zucchini as one of its main ingredients. It's known for being moist and flavorful, often enhanced with ingredients like cinnamon, nuts, and vanilla extract. The zucchini adds moisture and texture to the bread, similar to how bananas do in banana bread. It's a popular way to use up an abundance of zucchini, and it's enjoyed by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 large eggs
- 7/8 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup grated zucchini (do not wring out the liquid)
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted if desired
- 1/4 cup currants or raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature helps the bread bake evenly.
- Grease two loaf pans (each 8½ x 4½ inches) with butter, shortening, or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the bread from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This mixture gives the bread its structure and flavor.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar together. Then, add grated zucchini, melted butter, and vanilla extract. These ingredients provide moisture and flavor to the bread.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough.
- Optionally, add chopped nuts and currants for texture and flavor. Then, divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake the bread for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the bread is fully cooked.
- Let the loaves cool in the pans for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This makes the bread easier to slice and serve.