If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that perfectly balances moistness with a touch of indulgence, this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a wonderfully moist and tender bread bursting with the subtle earthiness of fresh zucchini, combined with the sweet melty pockets of chocolate chips that make every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re sneaking in some veggies for the kids or just craving a comforting homemade snack, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and a nostalgic, cozy vibe that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the balance just right in this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the moisture-rich zucchini to the warm spices and luscious chocolate chips that provide those irresistible pockets of sweetness.
- Vegetable oil: Provides the necessary moistness and richness without overpowering the bread.
- Brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the bread soft.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the flavors and enhances the bread’s tenderness.
- Eggs: Acts as a natural binder and adds structure.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- Cinnamon: Infuses a cozy, spicy note that pairs perfectly with zucchini and chocolate.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents ensure the bread rises just right for an airy crumb.
- Salt: Intensity the sweetness and balances flavors.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone that holds this delicious bread together.
- Grated zucchini: Keeps the bread moist, tender, and adds a subtle veggie goodness without overpowering the sweetness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star of the show that offers delightful melty chocolate bites throughout.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan—either an 8×4-inch or 9×5-inch—by greasing it well with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures your bread releases easily after baking and helps achieve that perfect crust.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth, well-combined mixture. Taking the time to mix these ingredients thoroughly creates a luscious, velvety base for your batter.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Now, add the cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to your wet mixture and stir to combine. Next, gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, stirring just until the batter comes together. Be careful not to overmix here—you want the bread tender, not dense.
Step 4: Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the freshly grated zucchini along with the chocolate chips, spreading them evenly throughout the batter. This step is key because the zucchini keeps the bread wonderfully moist, while the chocolate chips give those irresistible sweet punches throughout.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top using a spatula. For an extra enticing look, sprinkle a handful of additional chocolate chips atop the loaf. Bake it in your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signifying the perfect crumb texture.
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, which helps it set up and release easily. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This patience ensures each slice holds together beautifully while locking in all that delicious moisture.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread fresh with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant, yet simple touch. You can also spread a thin layer of softened butter or a smear of cream cheese frosting to add richness that complements the chocolate bits perfectly.
Side Dishes
This bread is a star on its own, but pairing it with a cup of robust coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk elevates the experience. For a fuller breakfast or brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit for a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe into charming bite-sized treats by slicing it into squares and serving with dollops of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese topped with fresh berries. It’s also fantastic toasted with a smear of nut butter for a cozy afternoon snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover zucchini bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist at room temperature for up to 3 days. This prevents drying out and preserves that chewy, tender crumb everyone loves.
Freezing
Want to keep this delicious bread longer? Freeze the whole loaf or slice individual pieces and store them in sandwich bags. This way, you can enjoy quick thaw-and-eat servings anytime you crave a homemade snack.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, simply microwave a slice for about 15 seconds or pop it in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This revives the melty chocolate chips and soft crumb to perfection.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?
Absolutely! You can substitute vegetable oil with light olive oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil for subtle variations in flavor, though vegetable oil keeps the flavor neutral and moistness consistent.
Do I need to peel the zucchini before grating?
There’s no need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds color and nutrients, plus once grated, it blends seamlessly into the batter without affecting texture.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure, but be sure it includes xanthan gum to help maintain the texture and structure.
What type of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional and provide a balanced sweetness, but feel free to use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes and check again.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe is one of those gems that delivers on comfort, ease, and deliciousness every time. I encourage you to try it out and watch how it becomes a cherished classic in your home, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or an anytime sweet treat. Happy baking!
Print
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delightful Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread combines the moistness of fresh zucchini with sweet semi-sweet chocolate chips for a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, it’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Featuring a subtle cinnamon hint, this bread is a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and unique.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (119ml) vegetable oil
- ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups (188g) all-purpose flour
Add-ins
- 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (or your preferred type)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×4-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to prepare for baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Incorporate Zucchini and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the grated zucchini and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without deflating it.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. For an added touch, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top of the batter for a beautiful finish.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Note that the size of your pan affects the loaf’s shape; an 8×4-inch pan yields a domed top, whereas a 9×5-inch pan produces a flatter loaf.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing it to firm up and develop full flavor.
- Store: Store the cooled bread at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, or freeze for longer storage. You can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices wrapped in sandwich bags for convenient grab-and-go servings.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed frozen grated zucchini; drain excess moisture for best results.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Ensure not to overmix once the flour is added to keep the bread tender.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center between 50-60 minutes of baking.
- Allow bread to cool fully before slicing to maintain structure and texture.
