This moist apple zucchini bread is a fantastic treat! Made with fresh apples and zucchini, it’s sweet and soft, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
When I make this, the kitchen smells amazing! I love how it’s a sneaky way to add veggies to my day—who knew zucchini could taste so good in bread? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flours: This recipe uses both all-purpose and whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you want a gluten-free option, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just check that it includes xanthan gum for good structure.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for moisture. If you don’t have zucchini, you can substitute it with shredded carrots for a sweeter flavor. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing into the batter.
Apples: Any sweet apple works well. I usually go for Granny Smith or Fuji. If you prefer, applesauce can replace the grated apple, giving the bread extra moisture without the chunks.
Oils: Vegetable oil gives a mild flavor, but I often use melted coconut oil for a touch of coconut goodness. You can use melted butter too if you want a richer taste.
Eggs: If you’re vegan or have an egg allergy, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes).
How Do You Achieve a Moist Texture in the Bread?
To ensure your apple zucchini bread comes out moist, follow these tips:
- Don’t skip draining the grated zucchini! It holds a lot of water, and excess moisture can make your bread soggy.
- Coarse grating helps maintain the bread’s texture; try to keep the pieces chunky rather than fine.
- Avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until combined for a light texture.
- Let it cool in the pan for a bit. This helps the bread set and keeps it from crumbling when sliced.
Following these tips can help you create a deliciously moist apple zucchini bread that everyone will love!
Moist Apple Zucchini Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Sugars:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Veggies & Fruits:
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, shredded and drained)
- 1 cup peeled and grated apple (about 1 medium apple)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix everything up, plus 55 to 65 minutes for baking. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. In total, plan for a little over an hour, plus some cool time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just right for baking the bread. While that heats up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, take a moment to whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This mix will ensure your bread has great flavor and texture!
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with both the granulated and brown sugars. Mix until the mixture is nice and smooth—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Then, add in the oil and vanilla extract. Stir everything together well!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Stir your dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently until just combined. Remember, a few lumps are totally okay—just don’t overmix, or the bread might be tough!
5. Add in the Goodness:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and apple. If you’re using nuts and dried fruit, go ahead and toss those in too! This adds texture and sweetness to the bread.
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. It should fill the pan about 2/3 full, allowing room for rising.
7. Bake It Up:
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s fully cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious moist apple zucchini bread!
It makes for a delightful snack or breakfast treat! Enjoy every bite! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute All-Purpose Flour with Whole Wheat Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may make the bread denser. Try using a mix of half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour to maintain a lighter texture while still getting the benefits of whole grains.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Zucchini Bread?
Store leftover 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. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or different nuts and dried fruits based on your preference. Just keep in mind that too many add-ins can affect the bread’s texture, so add them in moderation!
How Can I Tell When the Bread is Done Baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center of the bread should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Remember, oven times can vary, so keep an eye on it!
