This moist blueberry zucchini bread is a delicious treat that combines sweet blueberries with healthy zucchini. It’s perfect for breakfast or a snack!
I love how easy this bread is to make! Just mix everything together and let your oven do the work. Plus, the smell will have you smiling all day! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your bread. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly since it’s more absorbent.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrition. You can substitute with grated carrots for a different flavor or carrots if zucchini isn’t available.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are great, but if they’re out of season, frozen works just fine. Use them frozen without thawing to prevent extra moisture in the batter.
Vegetable Oil: If you’re avoiding oil, you can use applesauce instead which will keep the bread moist and lower the fat content. Alternatively, melted coconut oil works well too!
How Do You Keep Zucchini Bread Moist?
Keeping your zucchini bread moist is vital for that perfect texture. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the grated zucchini. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Do not over-mix your batter! Combine just enough until the ingredients are wet. This keeps the bread light.
- Use oil instead of butter. Oil generally keeps baked goods moist longer.
- Let it cool completely before slicing. This helps the bread set and maintain moisture.
How to Make Moist Blueberry Zucchini Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Sugars:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-ins:
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, unpeeled)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini bread takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus around 55-65 minutes for baking. Allow an additional 15 minutes for cooling in the pan before transferring to a rack. With a bit of patience, you’ll have a lovely, moist bread ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread bakes evenly. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents so your bread rises correctly.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil using a whisk or mixer until well mixed. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This will create a nice, rich base for your bread.
4. Mix it All Together:
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix! This will keep your bread nice and tender.
5. Add in Zucchini and Blueberries:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and blueberries. If you’re using nuts, this is the time to add those too. Be gentle to avoid crushing the blueberries.
6. Transfer to Loaf Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for even baking.
7. Bake the Bread:
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool Before Slicing:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key to maintaining moisture and flavor.
9. Slice and Serve:
Once cooled, slice your delicious blueberry zucchini bread. Enjoy it plain, or add a little butter or cream cheese for an extra treat! Happy baking!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that it may make the bread denser, so you might want to reduce the amount slightly or increase the liquid.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Bread Is Moist?
To keep your zucchini bread moist, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter. Additionally, avoid over-mixing the ingredients to prevent a tough texture.
Can I Use Different Fruits or Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different fruits like raspberries or strawberries, or even add grated carrots or apples for a unique twist. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if your alternative is sweeter.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
