Why make this recipe
Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread is a delightful treat that balances the sweetness of sugar with the fresh, tangy zing of lemon. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This recipe is great for using up extra zucchini, especially during the summer months when they are plentiful. The moist texture and bright flavors make this bread a favorite among family and friends. Plus, it’s simple to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients!
How to make Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the grated zucchini, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the zucchini mixture. Stir gently and fold until just combined. A few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy the bright, moist flavors of lemon and zucchini.
How to serve Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread
Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread is delicious on its own, but you can serve it in many ways. You could spread a little butter or cream cheese on each slice for added richness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream.
How to store Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread
To keep your Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For even longer storage, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature.
Tips to make Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread
- Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini by using a clean kitchen towel. This will help the bread rise better.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh lemon.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Variations
You can customize this bread in many ways. Try adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture. Chocolate chips or dried fruit can also be mixed in for added sweetness. If you want to make it healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen grated zucchini. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done. If it’s wet, bake it a few more minutes and check again.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients to make two loaves of bread. Just be sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as it might take a little longer for larger batches.
