Zucchini Orange Bread Recipe
Are you tired of the same old banana bread? Looking to spice up your baking routine with a unique and flavorful recipe? Look no further than zucchini orange bread! This delightful bread combines the earthy taste of zucchini with the citrusy zing of orange, creating a treat that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
Zucchini Orange Bread Recipe Overview
Zucchini orange bread is a moist and flavorful bread that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. It is made with a combination of fresh zucchini, orange zest, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The bread is then topped with a sweet orange glaze, adding an extra burst of citrus flavor.
To make this delicious bread, you will need the following key ingredients:
– Zucchini: This summer squash adds moisture and a subtly sweet flavor to the bread.
– Oranges: Fresh oranges provide a burst of citrus flavor through both the zest and juice.
– Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the base of the bread, providing structure and texture.
– Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb.
– Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent and help to give the bread structure.
– Spices: Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
– Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the bread rise and create a light texture.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the great things about zucchini orange bread is that it is highly versatile. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or restrictions. For example, if you are following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, you can add chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the batter for added texture and flavor.
If you prefer a healthier version of zucchini orange bread, you can reduce the amount of sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier taste.
Cooking Time & Servings
The zucchini orange bread recipe takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and bake. This includes both the time needed to mix the batter and the baking time in the oven. The recipe yields one loaf of bread, which can be sliced into about 8 to 10 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, orange zest, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the vegetable oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the bread is cooled, prepare the orange glaze by combining 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons orange juice. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the bread.
9. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
– Serving Size: 1 slice
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 11g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5g
– Cholesterol: 35mg
– Sodium: 260mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 35g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 19g
– Protein: 3g
Cooking Time & Servings:
– Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
– Servings: 8-10 slices
Equipment:
– 9×5-inch loaf pan
– Large mixing bowl
– Spatula
– Whisk or fork
– Wire rack
Serving Suggestions:
Zucchini orange bread is delicious on its own, but it can be even more delightful when served with a few accompaniments. Consider spreading a dollop of cream cheese or butter on a warm slice of bread. You could also serve it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. For a more festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or garnish with a twist of orange zest.
Variation Ideas:
– Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
– Mix in 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness.
– Replace the orange zest with lemon zest for a tangy twist.
– Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a healthier alternative.
Substitutions:
– Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
– Substitute the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
– Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier taste.
Storage:
To keep your zucchini orange bread fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to extend its shelf life, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips:
– Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater to ensure an even texture in the bread.
– Squeeze the grated zucchini to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
– For an extra citrusy flavor, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the glaze.
– Let the zucchini orange bread cool completely before slicing, as it will be easier to cut.
Notes:
– This zucchini orange bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
– It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
– For a decorative touch, dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar before serving.
– This recipe is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
– Zucchini orange bread is a wonderful way to use up an abundance of zucchini during the summer season.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I freeze zucchini orange bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze zucchini orange bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag before freezing.
Q: Can I make zucchini orange bread without eggs?
A: Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg.
Q: How can I make zucchini orange bread gluten-free?
A: Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Q: Can I use orange extract instead of orange zest?
A: While you can use orange extract, it won’t provide the same fresh and vibrant flavor as orange zest. It’s best to use both for the best results.
Category:
– Breads
– Breakfast
– Brunch
– Dessert
– Summer Recipes
Personal Thought:
Zucchini orange bread is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of zucchini and orange in a moist, tender loaf. The sweetness of the orange glaze perfectly complements the earthiness of the zucchini, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. This bread is incredibly easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty snack, zucchini orange bread is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Give it a try and savor the delicious flavors in every bite.
If you’re looking to add a creative twist to your baking routine, zucchini orange bread is the perfect recipe to try. The combination of zucchini and orange creates a unique and flavorful bread that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, with the versatility of this recipe, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Add nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture, use whole wheat flour for a heartier taste, or reduce the sugar for a healthier option. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you give this zucchini orange bread recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors it has to offer. Have fun exploring different variations and adding your personal touch to make it truly your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Baking is all about having fun and expressing your creativity. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a delicious baking adventure!
“Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.” – Harriet van Horne
