A moist and flavorful quick bread perfect for any occasion. This spiced chocolate zucchini bread is enhanced with the bright zest of orange and the satisfying crunch of walnuts.
Author:Alex Rwanda
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:60 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:1 loaf
Category:Baking
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, allspice, and cocoa powder.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil until well combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and orange zest.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients alternately with the milk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Gently fold in the grated zucchini, chopped walnuts, and chocolate chips (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Ensure your zucchini is well-drained after grating to prevent excess moisture in the bread.
For a richer chocolate flavor, use good quality cocoa powder.
You can substitute pecans for walnuts if preferred.
Store cooled bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 slice
Calories:Approximately 350-400 kcal (will vary based on ingredients and additions)