This Moist Apple Zucchini Bread is a tasty treat packed with fresh apples and grated zucchini. It’s soft, sweet, and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Honestly, this bread is a sneaky way to get your veggies in! I love to spread a little butter on a warm slice. You’ll be reaching for seconds, I promise! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard here, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind it may yield a denser bread.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture. If unavailable, you can use shredded carrots as a fun alternative!
Apples: I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, but any apple you enjoy will work well. You can even use canned apple sauce if you’re in a pinch!
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans enhance the texture. If you prefer nut-free, feel free to leave them out or add chocolate chips instead for a sweet twist.
How Should I Prepare the Zucchini and Apple?
To prevent a soggy bread, it’s essential to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini. This can be done using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. For the apples, peel and grate them just before mixing to keep them fresh!
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a towel. Twist and squeeze to get out as much liquid as possible.
- Grate the apple over a bowl to catch the juices. You want it freshly grated to maintain its texture.
Moist Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup peeled, grated apple (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 55 to 65 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll want to let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan, then completely on a wire rack. In total, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This will help your bread come out easily once baked!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is well blended. This ensures even distribution of all the flavors and helps your bread rise nicely!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This is the sweet base of your bread!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you just want them combined to keep your bread fluffy and moist.
5. Add the Good Stuff:
Now, fold in the grated zucchini, grated apple, and nuts if you’re using them. These ingredients add moisture, flavor, and texture to your bread!
6. Fill the Pan:
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. It’s okay if it doesn’t look perfect—this batter will spread out as it bakes!
7. Bake Away!
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help keep it from getting soggy!
9. Slice and Serve:
Once cooled, slice your moist apple zucchini bread and serve! It’s delicious on its own or with a spread of butter or cream cheese.
Enjoy your homemade treat, and happy baking! 😊
FAQs for Moist Apple Zucchini Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the bread may turn out denser. You might also consider using a mix of both for added fiber while still maintaining some lightness.
How Do I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover apple zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Substitute the Eggs with a Vegan Option?
Absolutely! You can use a flax egg as a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens, then add it to the mix in place of each egg.
What If My Zucchini Is Too Wet?
If your grated zucchini seems particularly watery, squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy and ensure it stays nicely moist!
