Are you looking for a deliciously moist and flavorful bread that's surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This zucchini orange bread recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and subtly zesty, making it an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for beginner bakers, and a fantastic way to use up those extra zucchinis from your garden. Get ready to enjoy this simple yet impressive homemade bread that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 2 medium)
- ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your bread bakes evenly and releases easily.
Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined to prevent pockets of baking soda from creating an unpleasant taste.
Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended. This ensures that the wet ingredients are thoroughly incorporated before being added to the dry ingredients.
Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Zucchini and Orange: Gently fold in the grated zucchini, orange juice, and orange zest. The orange zest adds a wonderful aromatic layer to the bread.
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. Keep an eye on your bread during the last 15 minutes of baking, as ovens can vary.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Orange Bread:
- Fresh is Best: Using freshly squeezed orange juice and zest will significantly enhance the flavor of your bread.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to check if the bread is baked through. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
- Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delicious addition to this recipe.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Swirl: Add a swirl of melted chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a precise nutritional analysis, use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients. However, expect this recipe to be relatively low in fat and a good source of fiber due to the zucchini.
This zucchini orange bread is a simple recipe that delivers incredible flavor and texture. It’s a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. Enjoy this burst of sunshine in every slice!