Zucchini Bread Recipe America's Test Kitchen

Zucchini Bread Recipe America's Test Kitchen image source: www.americastestkitchen.com

Table of Contents Show

Zucchini Bread Recipe from America’s Test Kitchen

Zucchini bread is a delightful treat that combines the earthy goodness of zucchini with warm spices and a moist, tender crumb. One of the most beloved recipes for zucchini bread comes from America’s Test Kitchen, a trusted source for reliable and delicious recipes. If you’re looking to make the perfect zucchini bread, this recipe is a must-try.

Zucchini Bread Recipe Overview

America’s Test Kitchen’s zucchini bread recipe is a classic take on this beloved baked good. It features a combination of grated zucchini, spices, and other key ingredients that create a moist and flavorful bread. The recipe calls for zucchini, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. These simple ingredients come together to create a bread that is both delicious and versatile.

The zucchini bread recipe from America’s Test Kitchen is a great option for those with dietary preferences or restrictions. It can easily be made vegan by substituting the eggs with flaxseed or applesauce, and the recipe can also be adapted to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. These substitutions do not compromise the taste or texture of the bread and still result in a moist and flavorful final product.

One of the great things about this recipe is the short cooking time. The zucchini bread only needs to bake for about an hour, making it a quick and easy treat to whip up. And with the recipe yielding one loaf, it’s perfect for a small gathering or to enjoy throughout the week. The zucchini bread is best served warm, with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.

Ingredients:

2 cups grated zucchini
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the eggs and mix well.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the zucchini bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve the zucchini bread warm, or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 189
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 21mg
Sodium: 134mg
Total Carbohydrate: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 2g

Cooking Time & Servings:

This zucchini bread recipe from America’s Test Kitchen takes about 10 minutes to prepare and yields one loaf of bread. The loaf can be sliced into approximately 12 servings, making it perfect to enjoy as a snack or a light breakfast.

Equipment:

To make this zucchini bread recipe, you will need the following equipment:

Grater
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
Wire rack

Serving Suggestions:

Zucchini bread is delicious on its own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance the flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions:

Spread a dollop of cream cheese or butter on a warm slice of zucchini bread for a rich and creamy addition.
Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the bread to add a touch of sweetness.
Serve toasted slices of zucchini bread alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Garnish the bread with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Variation Ideas:

To add variety to your zucchini bread, consider trying these creative variations:

Add a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added richness and texture.
Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make the bread more wholesome.
Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or ginger, to give your zucchini bread a unique flavor profile.
Include a handful of dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, to add bursts of sweetness throughout the bread.

Substitutions:

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can make the following substitutions in this zucchini bread recipe:

To make the bread vegan, replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) or applesauce.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
Swap the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.

Storage:

To maintain the freshness and flavor of the zucchini bread, follow these storage recommendations:

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you prefer to keep the bread longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen bread, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven before serving.

Tips:

Here are some valuable tips and tricks to enhance your zucchini bread baking experience:

Use freshly grated zucchini for the best texture and moisture.
Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter to prevent a soggy bread.
For a more pronounced flavor, toast the nuts or spices before adding them to the batter.
Store any leftover zucchini bread in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture and prevent mold growth.

Notes:

Here are some additional notes and information about this zucchini bread recipe:

This zucchini bread is a great way to use up excess zucchini from your garden or local farmers’ market.
You can adjust the sweetness level by reducing or increasing the amount of sugar in the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
This bread can be enjoyed year-round, but it’s especially delicious during the summer when zucchini is in abundant supply.
This zucchini bread makes for a great homemade gift for friends and family. Wrap it in a pretty ribbon or place it in a decorative tin for a thoughtful present.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Here are some common questions about zucchini bread:

Q: Can I freeze zucchini bread?

A: Yes, you can freeze zucchini bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

A: Yes, you can substitute yellow squash for zucchini in this recipe. The taste and texture will be slightly different, but the overall result will still be delicious.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the zucchini bread?

A: Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a popular variation for zucchini bread. Simply fold in a cup of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Q: Can I make zucchini bread muffins instead of a loaf?

A: Yes, you can easily make zucchini bread muffins using this recipe. Just pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Personal Thought

The zucchini bread recipe from America’s Test Kitchen is a true winner. With its moist texture, subtle hint of spices, and a touch of sweetness, it is a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast bread or an afternoon snack, this zucchini bread will surely satisfy your cravings. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it suitable for novice and experienced bakers alike. Give it a try and discover the joy of baking your own zucchini bread from scratch.

So, why not indulge yourself in the delightful flavors of zucchini bread? Try this recipe from America’s Test Kitchen and let your taste buds thank you. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own by adding your favorite mix-ins or exploring different variations. Happy baking!

In conclusion, zucchini bread is a delectable treat that combines the freshness of zucchini with warm spices in a moist and flavorful bread. America’s Test Kitchen’s recipe for zucchini bread provides a reliable and delicious result every time. Whether you follow the recipe as is or experiment with variations and substitutions, this zucchini bread is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and enjoy the process of baking this delightful bread. Share your experiences, feedback, and suggestions as you embark on your zucchini bread adventure. Happy baking!