Chocolate Zucchini Bread

This delightful chocolate zucchini bread is a perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and healthy zucchini, creating a moist and delectable treat. The zucchinis add a subtle moisture to the bread while remaining virtually undetectable in taste, making it an excellent choice for even the most skeptical eaters. Complemented by the aromatic warmth of cinnamon and vanilla, each slice offers a comforting richness. This recipe is easy to follow, making it a great project for novice bakers. Whether served as a delicious breakfast option or a satisfying dessert, this bread is both versatile and scrumptious. Perfect for using up extra zucchinis, it also proves that incorporating vegetables into baked goods can be both fun and rewarding. The combination of simple ingredients creates a depth of flavor that is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. It’s a great way to enjoy a little sweetness without feeling too indulgent.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 250 g zucchini, grated
• 130 g flour
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• Pinch of baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 100 g chocolate, grated
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla sugar
• 100 g sugar
• 100 g brown sugar
• 120 ml vegetable oil

Preparation Time

60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F) and greasing a loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the bread later.
2. Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater and set aside. The zucchini should be moist but not soggy; pat dry if necessary.
3. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and gradually add both the granulated and brown sugars. Whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, then gradually pour in the vegetable oil while continuing to whisk.
5. Fold the grated zucchini into the egg mixture gently, ensuring it's well incorporated without overmixing.
6. Add the grated chocolate to the zucchini mixture, stirring gently to distribute chocolate evenly.
7. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, gradually combining them to form a consistent batter. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to maintain a light texture.
8. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, leveling the surface for even baking.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes. Check the bread's readiness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should emerge mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
10. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. This step is crucial: let the bread cool down fully before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.

Tips

• **Ensure zucchinis are fresh** for the best results and avoid too much moisture.
• Feel free to substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• **For a nutty twist**, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
• Spice it up by adding a hint of nutmeg or cloves for a warmer flavor.

Nutritions

A typical slice (1/12 of the loaf) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 34g

Variations

• **Gluten-Free:** Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends.
• **Vegan:** Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use dark chocolate free of dairy.
• **Reduced Sugar:** Use stevia or another sugar substitute in place of sugars.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Pair with a hot beverage, like coffee or chai tea, for a comforting snack.
• For a full breakfast, complement the bread with fresh fruit and yogurt on the side.

Best Places

• Magnolia Bakery - Famous for its rich chocolate cakes and cozy ambiance. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
• Pierre Hermé Paris - Known for luxurious desserts and innovative flavors. Location: 86 Av. Paul Doumer, Paris, France.
• Sketch - Renowned for its exceptional decor and exquisite pastries. Location: 9 Conduit St, London, UK.
• Chocolateria San Gines - World-famous for its churros and chocolate. Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, Madrid, Spain.
• Café Central - An iconic café offering classic Austrian pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Café de Flore - Popular for its historical significance and delicious patisseries. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Bettys Café Tea Rooms - Enjoy traditional English tea and cakes. Location: 6-8 St. Helen's Square, York, UK.
• Pastéis de Belém - Famous for its pastel de nata and charming atmosphere. Location: R. de Belém 84-92, Lisbon, Portugal.
• La Patisserie Cyril Lignac - Offers exquisite French pastries. Location: 24 Rue Paul Bert, Paris, France.
• Läderach - Known for its fine Swiss chocolates and vibrant flavors. Location: Bahnhofstrasse 106, Zürich, Switzerland.