Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe that's both healthy and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This zucchini bread recipe using self-rising flour is perfect for beginner bakers and busy weeknights. It's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables while enjoying a moist and flavorful treat. Forget complicated recipes and enjoy the simplicity of homemade goodness. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. This is one of the best recipes for a delicious and satisfying quick dinner idea or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups self-rising flour (This is the secret to making this recipe super simple!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your bread comes out perfectly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Using self-rising flour streamlines the process, omitting the need for separate leavening agents.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in a tough loaf.
- Add Zucchini & Nuts: Gently fold in the grated zucchini and nuts (if using).
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade zucchini bread!
Tips for the Best Zucchini Bread:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Drain excess moisture from the zucchini: Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter. This will prevent a soggy loaf.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes. Every oven is different, so it's best to check a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
- Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with different nuts, spices, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to customize your zucchini bread.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist.
- Lemon Zucchini Bread: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the batter for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Spiced Zucchini Bread: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg, and add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy zucchini bread recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious treat anytime. This quick dinner idea is also perfect for meal prepping. Enjoy!