Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the goodness of veggies, then you’ve come to the right place! This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is not only a delightful indulgence but also a sneaky way to incorporate some nutrients into your day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet after dinner or for family gatherings where everyone will be clamoring for seconds.

What makes this recipe truly special is its moist texture and intense chocolate flavor, thanks to the shredded zucchini and generous amounts of cocoa and chocolate chips. You’ll find that this bread quickly becomes a favorite in your home, disappearing slice by slice. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids love chocolate, so they won’t even notice they’re getting some veggies in their diet!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a loaf ahead of time, and enjoy it throughout the week as a snack or breakfast option.
• Rich chocolate flavor: With Dutch process cocoa and semisweet chocolate chips, every bite is pure bliss.
• Versatile add-ins: Feel free to experiment with nuts or spices to make this recipe your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. 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, divided semisweet chocolate chips

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Swap the oil: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. Preheating ensures that your bread bakes evenly, giving it that lovely rise we all crave.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure they are well combined before adding them to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the 2 eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup oil, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth—this step brings together those sweet flavors that will complement the chocolate perfectly.

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. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread tender and moist!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. To make it extra delicious, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top! This little touch creates beautiful melty pockets of chocolate in every slice.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye out—when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are fine), it’s time to take it out!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled slightly, slice up this chocolaty delight and enjoy every bite! Whether it’s as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner, you won’t be able to resist going back for more.

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Baking is all about enjoying the process and making it your own, so here are some tips to elevate your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini gives your bread the best moisture and flavor. Avoid using pre-packaged shredded zucchini, as it may contain preservatives that could alter the texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense loaf. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to toss in nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or spices like cinnamon for an extra kick. These additions can enhance both flavor and texture.

• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely on a wire rack ensures the crumb sets properly, making slicing easier and preventing it from becoming gummy.

• Store Properly: To keep your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays delicious for several days at room temperature!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving this delightful bread can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to present your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of sweetness and looks elegant.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some semisweet chocolate and drizzle over the top for an indulgent finish that enhances the chocolate experience.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a burst of acidity that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt Parfait: A bowl of creamy yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruit complements the richness of the bread perfectly, creating a satisfying breakfast or snack.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea adds a calming element to your dessert experience. Peppermint or chamomile would work beautifully alongside this treat.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream transforms your zucchini bread into an exquisite dessert that’s sure to impress!
• Coffee: Pairing with a cup of freshly brewed coffee makes this delightful bread suitable for any time of day; its rich flavors complement each other wonderfully.

Enjoy every bite and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. You can easily make it in advance and store or freeze it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice securely in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and type of bread.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
• For a warm slice, microwave on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, toast slices in a toaster oven until warmed and slightly crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.

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 with just a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Can I add nuts to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition. Just fold them into the batter along with the zucchini and chocolate chips for added crunch.

What if I don’t have Dutch process cocoa?

You can use unsweetened cocoa powder instead, though the flavor might be slightly less rich. The bread will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s not only a wonderful way to indulge your sweet tooth but also sneak in some veggies. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite in your home. Happy baking!