Craving a chocolate treat that’s also good for you? This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a perfect Healthy Chocolate Desserts Idea. You’ll love how moist and flavorful this easy-to-make bread is, sneaking in some veggies too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Zucchini: Don’t peel it! The skin adds nutrients and color.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened for best results.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work well. For a healthier option, use sugar-free.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is fine, or use a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
- Sweetener: Granulated sugar is standard, but you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia for less sugar.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini), excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Optional:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 50-60 minutes
- Total time: 65-75 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280 calories (may vary based on substitutions)
- Tools needed: Large mixing bowl, medium mixing bowl, whisk, rubber spatula, 9×5 inch loaf pan, box grater.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents sticking and ensures your bread bakes evenly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter. Setting aside your dry ingredients now makes the mixing process much faster.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creates the base for your moist and flavorful bread. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough bread, so stop as soon as you see no dry streaks.
5. Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and chocolate chips (and nuts if you’re using them). The zucchini will add moisture and nutrition without altering the chocolate flavor. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
6. Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the aroma fill your kitchen!
7. Cool and Serve
Let the Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from getting soggy. Slice and enjoy your delicious Healthy Chocolate Desserts Idea!
Variation Ideas:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
- Nutty Crunch: Toast your nuts before adding them for enhanced flavor.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl in softened cream cheese sweetened with a little sugar for a decadent touch.
- Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest for a bright, refreshing flavor note.
- Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans and adjust baking time to 25-30 minutes.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can also wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Do I need to peel the zucchini?
A: No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. The skin is thin and disappears into the batter, adding nutrients.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
Q: My bread is dry, what went wrong?
A: Overmixing the batter or overbaking the bread can lead to dryness. Make sure to mix just until combined and check for doneness at the earlier end of the baking time.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
Q: How do I know when the zucchini bread is fully baked?
A: Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, your bread is ready.
Q: Is this considered a healthy chocolate dessert?
A: Yes, by incorporating zucchini and offering substitutions like unsweetened applesauce or sugar-free chocolate chips, this recipe makes a fantastic Healthy Chocolate Desserts Idea.