This Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a tasty treat that sneaks in some veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, it’s moist, chocolatey, and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
You won’t even know it has zucchini in it—it’s like a secret ingredient that keeps the bread fluffy! 😄 I love having a slice with my morning coffee; it makes the perfect pairing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Wheat Flour: Whole wheat flour gives a nutty flavor while boosting fiber. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend works well. Just remember the texture might change a bit!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is a must for that rich chocolate taste. You can substitute it with carob powder for a different flavor, but the bread will be less chocolatey.
Maple Syrup or Honey: These act as natural sweeteners. If you want a lower-calorie option, try using stevia or erythritol in the same amount, adjusting to taste.
Grated Zucchini: This is where the magic happens! Use fresh zucchini, and don’t peel it—the skin adds color and nutrients. You could substitute with grated apples or carrots if you don’t have zucchini on hand.
Greek Yogurt: It keeps the bread moist! For a dairy-free option, choose coconut yogurt or any nut-based yogurt. You can also use silken tofu for a protein boost.
How Do I Properly Grate Zucchini?
Grating zucchini is simple, but it’s important to remove excess moisture to avoid soggy bread. Here’s how you do it:
- Wash the zucchini and cut off the ends. Use a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment to shred it.
- After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Twist the towel and squeeze to remove as much liquid as you can.
- This step ensures your bread is fluffy, not mushy. Trust me, it’s worth the little extra effort!
Enjoy making this Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread—it’s a hit with everyone!
How to Make Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
Special Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious and healthy chocolate zucchini bread will take you about 15 minutes for prep and around 50-60 minutes for baking. Plan for a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, plus some time for the bread to cool. It’s a simple and rewarding recipe!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a little oil or butter, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re mixed evenly. This helps ensure your bread has a nice, consistent texture!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they’re frothy. Then add the maple syrup (or honey), unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Slowly stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently until just combined—don’t worry if there are a few lumps; that’s okay!
5. Add Zucchini and Chocolate Chips:
Now, fold in the grated zucchini and dark chocolate chips (if you opted to use them). Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep your bread light and fluffy!
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use the spatula to smooth the top. This will help it bake evenly!
7. Bake Your Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This part can be the hardest, but letting it cool helps improve the texture!
Enjoy your moist, chocolatey, and healthy zucchini bread! It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
FAQ for Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Can I Substitute the Whole Wheat Flour?
Absolutely! You can use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend if you’re looking for a gluten-free version. Just keep in mind that using different flours may slightly alter the texture of the bread.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store any leftover zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen grated zucchini! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture with a towel before adding it to the batter. This helps maintain the right texture in your bread.
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt, coconut yogurt, or even unsweetened silken tofu for a dairy-free alternative. Each will provide moisture, keeping your bread deliciously soft!
