Chocolate Zucchini Bread

If you’re searching for the perfect way to use up extra zucchini and satisfy your chocolate cravings, this Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a game-changer. Incredibly moist, deeply chocolaty, and speckled with melty chocolate chips, this loaf is a delicious twist on a classic zucchini bread. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a sweet breakfast, or a decadent dessert, this easy recipe will quickly become one of your go-to zucchini loaf recipes with chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

• No one will ever guess it has vegetables! This loaf is perfect for picky eaters.
• Quick and simple to prepare using pantry staples and garden-fresh zucchini.
• Perfect for variations: want a chocolate chunk zucchini bread or a chocolate zucchini bread with no eggs? Easy swaps make it flexible for every baker.
• Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead breakfasts or healthy chocolate snacks.
• It’s everything you love in a rich chocolate zucchini bread – soft, dense, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for one perfect zucchini loaf:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 1/4 cup oil (canola, vegetable, or coconut)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (tightly packed and lightly blotted)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 – 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×5 or 8×4-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and whisk well to combine.

3. Add the Zucchini

Stir in the grated zucchini. (Lightly blot the shredded zucchini with a paper towel to remove excess moisture — this helps the bread bake evenly without becoming soggy.)

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Stir just until combined; do not overmix.

5. Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips. Reserve the remaining chocolate chips to sprinkle on top before baking.

6. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips.

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). If the edges are browning too quickly before the center sets, tent the loaf loosely with foil around the 30-minute mark and continue baking.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve with sweet cream butter, chocolate hazelnut spread, or enjoy as is!

Tips for the Best Chocolate Zucchini Bread

• Use tightly packed zucchini. The moisture in the zucchini is essential for the soft, dense texture.
• Want a healthier version? Use coconut oil and reduce sugar slightly to turn this into a healthy chocolate zucchini bread.
• No eggs? Try substituting each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana to make a chocolate zucchini bread with no eggs.
• Add-ins: Try chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or shredded coconut for variation.

Storage & Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5–6 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Chocolate Zucchini Bread really sweet?

Yes, but it’s balanced. The chocolate chips and cocoa give it a rich, dessert-like flavor without being overly sweet.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just bake in two separate loaf pans or use one large 9×13 pan and adjust the baking time.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes – substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Slice – 10 slices)

• Calories: ~310
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 40g
• Sugar: 24g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

Final Thoughts

This chocolate zucchini bread is a must-try whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro. Rich, soft, and full of chocolate flavor, it’s the perfect way to sneak in some veggies while still satisfying your sweet tooth. From chocolate chip zucchini bread to zucchini loaf recipes with chocolate chips, this recipe covers it all in one decadent bite.

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