Zucchini Spice Bread
A moist, flavorful zucchini spice bread with warm cinnamon and cloves, crunchy pecans, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or teatime, appealing to zucchini lovers and spice enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease and flour the bottom of a loaf pan.
- Beat the oil, egg, and milk together.
- Add the dry ingredients; mix well.
- Do not beat vigorously.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded zucchini.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the pan and cool before slicing.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
- The bread freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, if you prefer. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to prevent the bread from becoming too moist. This recipe can also be adapted to include chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve the zucchini spice bread as a delightful breakfast or snack. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of cream cheese or a spread of butter. For a more indulgent treat, try it alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You might also enjoy it with fresh fruit or yogurt to brighten up the meal. This bread makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled zucchini spice bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. You can also place it in an airtight container. It stays good at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Spice Bread contains roughly 329 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini with shredded carrots or even apples for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind the moisture content; if using apples, consider reducing the liquid slightly.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
To check if the zucchini spice bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free nut bread mix or substitute the mix with a blend of gluten-free flour and a leavening agent. Be sure to adjust the liquid content as gluten-free flours can absorb more moisture.
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).