Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with a hidden veggie surprise, then my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen or for family gatherings where everyone will be clamoring for seconds.

What makes this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread so special is its moist and tender crumb, thanks to the shredded zucchini that melts into the batter. It adds a subtle texture without stealing the spotlight from the luscious chocolate flavor—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings any time of day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal mess, this recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate! This bread is a sneaky way to get some veggies into your kids’ diet.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It stays fresh and delicious for days!
• Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to customize with nuts, spices, or your favorite mix-ins for a unique twist every time.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of Dutch cocoa and semisweet chocolate chips makes every bite an indulgent pleasure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully in this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread. You might already have many of them in your pantry!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 1/4 cup canola oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-Ins

• 1 1/2 cups packed shredded zucchini
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and tailor it to suit your taste preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor profile.
• Use Different Sweeteners: Swap out light brown sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup if you prefer.
• Chocolate Chunk Surprise: Replace half of the chocolate chips with chunks of your favorite dark chocolate for an extra indulgent bite.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. Preheating ensures that our bread bakes evenly, giving us that perfect rise.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. This step helps ensure that our dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup oil, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This creates a rich base full of flavor—trust me; it smells heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then add in the shredded zucchini and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Mixing gently protects the air pockets we’ve created so far—this will keep our bread fluffy!

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top! This little touch adds an appealing look and extra chocolatey goodness.

Step 6: Bake

Place your loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

After baking, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy every delicious piece of this chocolatey delight!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Creating the perfect Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is all about attention to detail and a few clever tricks!

• Grate Zucchini Finely: Use a box grater or food processor to finely shred the zucchini. This helps it blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring you get that moist texture without any chunky bites.

• Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: After shredding, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out to remove excess moisture. This prevents the bread from becoming too soggy and allows for a better rise.

• Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately: Take the time to whisk your dry ingredients separately before combining them with the wet ingredients. This ensures even distribution of baking soda and cocoa, leading to a more consistent flavor throughout.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread, so be kind to your dough!

• Check for Doneness Early: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread

This delectable bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Here are some ideas for serving it up and impressing your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the rich chocolate flavor.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra semisweet chocolate chips and drizzle them over sliced bread for an indulgent presentation that accentuates its chocolatey goodness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and brightness that complements the richness of the chocolate.

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing out the sweetness of the bread beautifully.

• Nut Butter: Spreading almond or peanut butter on top elevates this treat into a more filling snack or breakfast option, while also adding healthy fats.

• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pairing your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread with a warm cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat that everyone will love.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions, and watch as your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread becomes an irresistible star at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, ensuring you have a tasty treat ready whenever you need it. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread into individual pieces for easy serving.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the oven.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the desired number of slices from storage.
• Place them on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this scrumptious recipe!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! Keep in mind that it may yield a denser texture, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, bake it for additional time.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits. Just keep an eye on the overall moisture level of the batter.

What if I don’t have Dutch process cocoa?

You can use unsweetened cocoa powder as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread! Its rich chocolatey goodness combined with the subtle hint of zucchini makes it truly unique and satisfying. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every slice!