Description
Ina Garten’s Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a moist and rich loaf combining grated zucchini, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips for a delectable treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. This easy-to-make recipe balances sweetness and wholesome ingredients, delivering a soft, flavorful bread with a delightful hint of cinnamon and optional walnuts for crunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it thoroughly and lining with parchment paper if desired for easier removal.
- Grate the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and grate them finely. If the grated zucchini is very wet, gently squeeze to remove excess moisture to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Zucchini to Wet Mix: Stir the grated zucchini into the wet ingredient mixture, mixing gently to integrate evenly.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter Into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake the Bread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable oil with an equal amount of canola or coconut oil for slight flavor variations.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
- Make sure to not overmix the batter to avoid a dense loaf.
- Grated zucchini adds moisture but does not impart a strong vegetable flavor, making this bread kid-friendly.
- Store baked bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American