Desserts

Lemon Zucchini Bread

Lemon Zucchini Bread is a delightful and moist quick bread that perfectly balances the zestiness of lemon with the subtle sweetness of zucchini. It’s an ideal way to use up excess zucchini in your garden or the produce aisle. With its tender crumb and refreshing flavor, this bread makes for a fantastic accompaniment to your morning coffee or an indulgent afternoon snack.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5-15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Lemon Zucchini Bread

This Lemon Zucchini Bread is a delightful way to enjoy your favorite flavors in a comforting loaf. The lemon adds a bright and zesty note that perfectly complements the moisture of the zucchini. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this bread is bound to impress friends and family alike.

How to Make Lemon Zucchini Bread

## Ingredients:

1 cup grated zucchini
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This ensures that your bread will easily release from the pan after baking.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, mix the grated zucchini, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Allow the mixture to blend as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Cooking

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser loaf.

Step 4: Finishing

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma of lemon and cinnamon will fill your kitchen!

How to Serve Lemon Zucchini Bread

Slice your Lemon Zucchini Bread to serve warm or at room temperature. It’s fantastic plain, but feel free to add a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a sweeter touch. Additionally, pairing a slice with cream cheese or a pat of butter enhances its flavors beautifully.

How to Store Lemon Zucchini Bread

To store your Lemon Zucchini Bread, first, ensure it cools completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, slice the bread before wrapping to make it easy to grab individual servings.

Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Zucchini Bread

Use fresh zucchini for the best flavor and moisture.
If your zucchini is very wet, gently squeeze it in a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest and juice slightly.
Consider adding poppy seeds for an interesting texture and appearance.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Chip Lemon Zucchini Bread: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Herb-Infused Zucchini Bread: Include fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a savory touch.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen zucchini? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
Can I substitute other sugars? Brown sugar or coconut sugar can work well for a richer flavor.
What can I do if my bread is too dense? Be sure not to overmix the wet and dry ingredients when combining.
How can I improve the flavor of my bread? Enhance it with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice.
Can this bread be made vegan? Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use a plant-based oil.

Conclusion

Baking Lemon Zucchini Bread is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a wonderful way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh zucchini. It’s easy to make, moist, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re preparing a batch to share with loved ones or enjoying it solo with a cup of tea, you’re sure to savor every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s a perfect blend of freshness and comfort that you won’t want to miss!