Orange-Zucchini Bread
Orange-Zucchini Bread offers a moist, flavorful treat blending the sweetness of orange and the earthiness of zucchini. Spiced with cinnamon and enhanced by vanilla and nuts, this versatile bread is perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy comforting, fruity, and nutty baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, sugar, and oil in a bowl.
- Add grated zucchini and orange rind to the mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Add flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and vanilla to the mixture.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Fold in nuts if desired.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist and flavorful bread, ensure your zucchini is well-drained before adding it to the mixture. If you don't have orange rind, lemon zest can be a good substitute. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread or use a sugar alternative suitable for baking. For added texture, consider using walnuts or pecans, which pair beautifully with the flavors in this bread.
Serving Suggestions
This orange-zucchini bread is delightful as a breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Serve it with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for added richness. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slice of the Spinach And Artichoke Bake for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover orange-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. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices in a toaster or microwave before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Zucchini Bread contains roughly 656 calories, with 10g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1534mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. Consider using a mix of both flours for a lighter loaf while still adding some whole grain benefits.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it starts to brown too quickly on top, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Can I make this bread in advance for a gathering?
Absolutely! You can bake the orange-zucchini bread a day or two ahead of your event. Just store it properly, and it will stay fresh. This makes it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings or as a homemade gift.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).