Zucchini Walnut Bread
Zucchini Walnut Bread offers moist, tender slices packed with the nutty crunch of walnuts and the subtle sweetness of raisins. This hearty, flavorful loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or gifting. Its warm cinnamon aroma and zucchini's moistness make it a comforting, versatile treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop walnuts.
- Beat eggs; gradually beat in sugar, then oil.
- Combine the egg mixture with grated zucchini, alternating.
- Stir in raisins, walnuts, and vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into two greased and lightly floured loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 1 hour or until loaves test done.
- Let stand about 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool.
- Optional: Lightly frost with a mixture of confectioners' sugar, butter, vanilla, and milk.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat flour. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds. You can also add a touch of nutmeg for extra warmth. Ensure the grated zucchini is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter. This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Zucchini Walnut Bread is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a smear of cream cheese or butter. It makes a great breakfast or snack option. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of tea for a lovely afternoon treat. For a fun twist, try it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Zucchini Walnut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Walnut Bread contains roughly 728 calories, with 5g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% 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 substitute the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can use alternatives like coconut sugar or honey, but keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may vary. If using honey, reduce the amount slightly and consider adjusting the liquid ingredients to maintain the right batter consistency.
Is it necessary to frost the Zucchini Walnut Bread?
Frosting is entirely optional! The bread is delicious on its own, but a light frosting made with confectioners' sugar, butter, vanilla, and milk can add an extra touch of sweetness. Try it if you want a more dessert-like treat.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize this bread by adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even shredded carrots. Just be mindful of the moisture content so the bread doesn't become too wet. This recipe is versatile and can accommodate various add-ins.
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).