Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a deliciously moist treat that sneaks in some veggies, this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just the recipe for you! It’s a wonderful combination of rich chocolate and the subtle goodness of zucchini. I love making this zesty bread on busy weeknights or for family gatherings, as it’s always a hit! The best part? It’s not just a dessert; it can also be enjoyed as breakfast or a snack throughout the day.

Every bite of this zucchini bread is infused with deep chocolate flavor, thanks to the Dutch process cocoa and semisweet chocolate chips. You might even find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me; this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites, disappearing slice by slice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, baking this bread is a breeze!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet chocolatey flavor—plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in some veggies!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can whip up a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Versatile options: Feel free to add nuts or spices for an extra twist, making each loaf uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread uses simple and wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/4 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-ins

• 1 1/2 cups packed shredded zucchini
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.
• Use different oils: Experiment with olive oil or melted coconut oil for different tastes.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

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 comes 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 helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and ensures your bread rises beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 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. Mixing these ingredients until smooth creates a delightful base that enhances the richness of your bread.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Adding in 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup chocolate chips adds moisture and bursts of chocolaty goodness!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top for that extra indulgent touch!

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Baking transforms all those lovely ingredients into a warm loaf filled with chocolatey delight.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before removing it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice it up and enjoy every rich bite!

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Making the perfect Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is all about those little touches that elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out deliciously every time!

• Grate Zucchini Finely: The finer you grate the zucchini, the better it will incorporate into the batter without leaving large chunks. This helps maintain a smooth texture while adding moisture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing ensures a smoother batter and helps the ingredients blend more easily. This can make a significant difference in the final texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread, so it’s perfectly fine if there are a few lumps.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark. You want a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with just a few moist crumbs attached – not wet batter!

• Store Properly: To keep your bread fresh longer, store it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It also freezes beautifully if you want to enjoy it later!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread can be as creative as you like! Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dessert, presenting it nicely adds to the experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a lovely touch and enhances its visual appeal without overpowering the chocolate flavor.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra semisweet chocolate and drizzle it over the top for an indulgent finish that makes each slice even more tempting.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds a burst of natural sweetness and acidity that complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

• Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt on the side for a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the dense bread.

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can elevate your tasting experience, providing warmth and balance to the rich flavors of the zucchini bread.

• Nut Butter: Spread a thin layer of almond or peanut butter on top for added protein and healthy fats, making your treat even more satisfying.

Enjoy your deliciously chocolatey journey with this delightful recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! Its deliciousness lasts, making it a great option to whip up ahead of time. Here’s how to store and keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, leave slices at room temperature for about an hour or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on high for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• For a whole loaf, preheat the oven to 350°F and wrap it in foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour! However, it may make the bread denser. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for better texture.

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

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out mostly clean with just a few crumbs attached, your bread is perfectly baked!

Can I add nuts to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in your favorite nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Just be mindful of the balance between chocolate and nut ratios.

How long does Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, this bread can last up to 3 days. If frozen, it will stay fresh for about 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s not only rich and chocolatey but also a sneaky way to include veggies in your diet. Whether you’re savoring it with coffee or sharing it with loved ones, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy baking!