Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe: Decadent Dark Chocolate Indulgence

I remember the first time I stumbled upon a chocolate zucchini bread recipe in an old family cookbook. At first, the idea of combining chocolate with zucchini seemed unusual, but my curiosity got the better of me. As I mixed the ingredients and watched the batter come together, I realized this was more than just a recipe; it was an invitation to explore unexpected flavors.

My kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of chocolate as the bread baked, and I couldn’t wait to see how the zucchini would transform the texture. The result was a moist, rich, and utterly delightful loaf that became an instant family favorite. This chocolate zucchini bread turned out to be the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity.

Over the years, this recipe has become a staple in my home, a go-to treat for gatherings and quiet afternoons alike. The combination of dark chocolate chips and shredded zucchini creates a symphony of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. If you’re ready to embark on a baking adventure, this is the perfect recipe to start with!

Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x

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Description

Indulge in our Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe and discover how to bake a moist and decadent treat that combines the goodness of zucchini with rich chocolate flavors. Perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) Dutch process cocoa or unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) sea salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) packed shredded zucchini
• 1 cup (240 ml) dark chocolate chips, divided

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Instructions

1. Start by setting your oven to 350°F and coating a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray; put it aside.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt using a whisk, then set this mixture aside.
3. In a larger bowl, mix together the eggs, melted butter, oil, vanilla extract, and brown sugar until the consistency is smooth; it’s okay if there are a few small brown sugar lumps.
4. Gently incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, being careful not to over-stir. Add the shredded zucchini and mix until just combined, then fold in ¾ cup of the chocolate chips.
5. Transfer the batter into the loaf pan you prepared earlier. Scatter the remaining ¼ cup of chocolate chips over the top of the batter.
6. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean, save for some melted chocolate.
7. Take the pan out of the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for 15 minutes. Use a knife to loosen the edges before gently removing the bread from the pan.
8. Allow the bread to cool on the wire rack until it’s warm to the touch, then slice and enjoy.
9. Note: If opting for coconut oil, ensure it’s melted and slightly cooled. The bread can be kept at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap for up to four days or frozen for up to a month. To freeze, ensure the bread is completely cool, then wrap in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw before slicing.

Notes

• Make sure to remove excess moisture from shredded zucchini before adding to batter to avoid a soggy loaf.
• For a more intense chocolate flavor, swap regular cocoa powder for Dutch process cocoa powder.
• Enhance presentation by dusting powdered sugar on top of the bread before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: Unknown
• Fat: Unknown
• Protein: Unknown

Keywords: zucchini bread, chocolate chips, easy recipe, moist texture, baking instructions, cocoa powder

Understanding Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Fundamentals

The beauty of a chocolate zucchini bread recipe lies in its simplicity and the unique twist of adding zucchini. This vegetable, known for its mild flavor and high moisture content, serves as the secret ingredient that keeps the bread wonderfully moist. The combination of flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda creates the perfect base for a rich, chocolatey loaf.

Choosing quality ingredients is paramount to achieving the best results. Use Dutch process cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor, and opt for fresh, organic zucchini when possible. The addition of dark chocolate chips not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds delightful texture to every bite.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing your loaf pan with nonstick spray. This step ensures that your bread will release easily after baking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Setting this mixture aside helps streamline the mixing process later.

In a larger bowl, combine the wet ingredients. Start with the eggs, then add melted butter, vegetable oil, pure vanilla extract, and light brown sugar. Mixing these until smooth creates the perfect foundation for your batter. Ensure the melted butter is slightly cooled to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.

Crafting the Perfect Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Technique

The key to a successful chocolate zucchini bread is in the gentle incorporation of ingredients. Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture, stirring carefully to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, rather than the soft, tender crumb we’re aiming for. Adding the shredded zucchini not only provides moisture but also subtly enhances the flavor profile.

Folding in ¾ cup of dark chocolate chips adds richness and ensures pockets of melted chocolate throughout the bread. For an enticing presentation, scatter the remaining ¼ cup of chocolate chips over the top of the batter before baking.

Tips/Tricks

For added depth of flavor, consider using melted coconut oil instead of vegetable oil. Its subtle nutty flavor complements the chocolate beautifully. If you find your zucchini is particularly watery, gently blot it with a paper towel before adding it to the batter to maintain the ideal consistency.

Keep a close eye on the baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs or melted chocolate. This is the perfect indication that your bread is ready to emerge from the oven.

Perfecting Your Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect chocolate zucchini bread involves a balance of flavor, texture, and presentation. Allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps the bread set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without sticking.

Once removed, let the loaf cool further until it’s just warm to the touch. This ensures that each slice retains its shape and texture. The result is a loaf that is not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your bread turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing or not measuring the flour accurately. Always use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour, ensuring a light and airy texture. For a fun variation, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy note.

For those with dietary restrictions, substitute gluten-free flour or try different sweeteners like coconut sugar. Each variation offers a unique twist while maintaining the essence of the original recipe. Explore more variations with our PC Banana Zucchini Bread for a delightful change.

Serving and Storing Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Serving/Presentation

Present your chocolate zucchini bread as a centerpiece for any gathering. Slice it into thick pieces and serve warm or at room temperature. The chocolate chips will have a lovely, melty consistency when slightly warm, enhancing the overall experience.

Consider garnishing with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Pair your bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea, allowing the flavors to complement each other beautifully. For more chocolatey goodness, try our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Bread Loaf as a delightful accompaniment.

Pairings/Storage

Store your bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to four days. If you wish to keep it longer, wrap it in aluminum foil and freeze for up to a month. Ensure the bread is completely cooled before freezing to preserve its texture and flavor.

Thaw the frozen bread at room temperature before slicing. This method maintains the freshness and taste, allowing you to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness at any time. For more delicious recipes and storage tips, check out our Soft and Fudgy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars.

Conclusion

This chocolate zucchini bread recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward techniques results in a treat that is both indulgent and comforting.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe provides an opportunity to explore the magic of combining unexpected ingredients. With its rich flavor and moist texture, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Embrace the joy of baking and discover the delicious possibilities that await.

FAQs – Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe