
Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread
Zucchini bread, a classic favorite among bakers and home cooks, brings back memories of savoring warm and moist slices on lazy afternoons. From its heavenly aroma to the incredibly soft texture, old fashioned zucchini bread is a true delight. This timeless recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, making it an irresistible treat for all. So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the nostalgic goodness of old fashioned zucchini bread.
Overview
Old fashioned zucchini bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread that is made with simple ingredients. The star of this recipe is, of course, zucchini, which adds amazing moisture and tenderness to the bread. Combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, as well as a touch of vanilla extract, this bread is a heavenly blend of flavors.
The key ingredient list for old fashioned zucchini bread includes grated zucchini, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect loaf of zucchini bread with a delightful balance of flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
Old fashioned zucchini bread is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences or restrictions. Here are a few ideas to experiment with:
– Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of zucchini bread.
– Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a plant-based oil instead of vegetable oil.
– Sugar-Free Option: Swap the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Adjust the moisture content accordingly.
– Nut-Free Option: Omit the ground nuts from the recipe for those with nut allergies. Alternatively, you can substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture.
Cooking Time & Servings
Old fashioned zucchini bread typically takes around 60-70 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). The recipe yields one loaf, which can be sliced into approximately 10-12 servings, depending on the thickness of each slice. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s always a good idea to do the toothpick test to ensure the bread is fully cooked.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated zucchini
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
5. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Information:
– Calories: 230 per serving
– Total Fat: 10g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5g
– Cholesterol: 30mg
– Sodium: 200mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 32g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 17g
– Protein: 4g
Cooking Time & Servings
– Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
– Servings: 10-12
Equipment:
– Large mixing bowls
– Grater
– 9×5-inch loaf pan
– Whisk or spatula
– Oven
Serving Suggestions:
Old fashioned zucchini bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with these serving suggestions:
– Serve warm slices of zucchini bread with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
– Dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
– Enjoy a slice of zucchini bread with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
– For a festive twist, serve the bread with a spiced apple or pumpkin butter spread.
Variation Ideas:
– Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent twist.
– Lemon Zucchini Bread: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter and drizzle the baked bread with a lemon glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
– Walnut Raisin Zucchini Bread: Stir in a cup of chopped walnuts and a cup of raisins to add texture and sweetness.
– Orange Cranberry Zucchini Bread: Replace the vanilla extract with orange extract and mix in dried cranberries for a tangy burst of flavor.
Substitutions:
– All-Purpose Flour: You can use whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a heartier texture.
– Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar can be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.
– Vegetable Oil: Melted coconut oil or melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil for a richer taste.
– Eggs: If you’re vegan or have an egg allergy, flax eggs or applesauce can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that the texture and rise of the bread may be slightly different.
Storage:
To maintain the freshness and flavor of old fashioned zucchini bread, follow these storage recommendations:
– Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerator: If you live in a warmer climate or want to store it for a longer period, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week.
– Freezer: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.
Tips:
– Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater to achieve the perfect texture for the bread.
– Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter to prevent the bread from becoming too wet.
– Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
– For a spiced twist, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the batter along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
Notes:
– Serve slices of zucchini bread with a smear of cream cheese for a delightful combination of flavors.
– This recipe can easily be doubled if you want to make two loaves or share with friends and family.
– Feel free to add a tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds to enhance the nutritional profile of the bread.
– Zucchini bread is a fantastic way to use up excess zucchini from your garden or a farmer’s market haul.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I freeze zucchini bread?
Yes, zucchini bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag before storing it in the freezer. Thaw it at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
2. Can I use frozen grated zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen grated zucchini in this recipe. Thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
3. Can I add chocolate chips to the zucchini bread?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips to the batter is a popular variation that adds a touch of indulgence to the zucchini bread.
4. Can I use other types of squash instead of zucchini?
While zucchini is traditionally used in this recipe, other types of summer squash, like yellow squash, can be substituted. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
“The smell of good bread baking, like the sound of lightly flowing water, is indescribable in its evocations of innocence and delight.”
– M.F.K. Fisher-
Personal Thought
Old fashioned zucchini bread is more than just a baked good; it’s a slice of comfort and nostalgia. The combination of moist zucchini, warm spices, and a tender crumb creates a truly wholesome and satisfying treat. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or as a sweet snack, this timeless recipe never fails to bring a smile to my face. So, gather your ingredients and create your own memories with this delightful old fashioned zucchini bread recipe.
Encourage readers to try the recipe and explore their creativity. Experiment with variations, add their personal touch, and savor the delightful flavors of zucchini bread. Make it their own and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from baking a homemade treat.
In closing, I invite you to share your experiences, feedback, and suggestions. I value your time and hope that you thoroughly enjoy preparing and savoring this classic dish. May every bite of old fashioned zucchini bread remind you of the simple joys in life.