This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread is a cozy treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. It’s sweet, spiced, and packed with fluffy zucchini goodness in every bite!
Baking this bread is a breeze! Just mix everything together, and the warm cinnamon aroma fills your kitchen. I love sharing it with friends—who can resist such a yummy slice? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Grated zucchini is the star here, adding moisture to the bread. You can substitute zucchini with finely grated carrot for a different flavor, but keep the moisture in mind!
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I find that using a blend helps keep the texture fluffy!
Sugars: The combination of granulated and brown sugar gives a rich flavor. If you’d like to reduce sugar, use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute. Just be cautious with the sweetness level, as it can vary.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch, but feel free to leave them out if you prefer. If you have allergies, sunflower seeds make a great nut-free option!
Why is Mixing Technique Important When Baking?
The mixing technique is crucial for achieving a tender loaf. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined – small lumps are okay! Overmixing makes the bread dense because it develops the gluten in the flour too much.
- Start by whisking dry ingredients separately, ensuring even distribution of baking soda and spices.
- Gently fold in the grated zucchini after adding the flour to keep that moisture in without overworking the batter.
- When adding the cinnamon swirl, use a skewer or knife to gently mix it into the batter, creating beautiful swirls without fully blending it in.
These tips and insights will help you bake a delicious Moist Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread that’s sure to impress! Enjoy!
Moist Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep and around 50-60 minutes for baking. Plus, allow about 15 minutes for cooling before slicing. So, in total, you’ll need about 1.5 hours to enjoy this lovely bread from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This helps the bread come out nice and clean!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. It’s important to get these combined before adding them to the wet ingredients, so set this bowl aside for now.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Then crack in the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract; the batter will start to come together beautifully!
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix as that can make the bread tough!
5. Add the Zucchini and Nuts:
Now, fold in the grated zucchini and the optional nuts. This will give your bread a nice texture and delightful flavor!
6. Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon. This will create the sweet swirl in your bread!
7. Layer the Batter:
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Take half of the cinnamon sugar mixture and sprinkle it over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and gently spread it out. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top.
8. Create the Swirl:
Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar mixture into the batter to create a lovely marbled effect. Don’t swirl it too much—you still want to see some of that delicious cinnamon sugar!
9. Bake the Bread:
Pop the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to protect it.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once done, let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Wait a bit before slicing to help keep it moist and avoid crumbling!
Enjoy your moist cinnamon swirl zucchini bread with a warm cup of coffee or tea—it’s the perfect cozy treat!
FAQ for Moist Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread
Can I Substitute the Vegetable Oil?
Yes! You can use melted coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly. If using applesauce, reduce the overall sugar by a few tablespoons as it adds natural sweetness!
Can I Use Other Add-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips instead of nuts or add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist. Just make sure to keep the total amount of add-ins around 1/2 cup.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store 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 store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious! You might also consider adding a bit of xanthan gum if your gluten-free blend does not contain it.
