Healthy Zucchini Bread

This Healthy Zucchini Bread is moist, fluffy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Made without oil, low in sugar, and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, it’s the perfect way to enjoy your garden zucchini. Best of all, everything comes together in one bowl for easy prep and clean-up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender texture without any oil

• Naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup

• Packed with hidden veggies (great for kids!)

• One bowl recipe—minimal mess, easy clean-up

• Made with whole wheat or spelt flour for extra fiber

• No refined sugar or butter

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups zucchini, coarsely or medium shredded, packed (not squeezed)

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups whole wheat or spelt flour

• Cooking spray

• 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. Stir in the shredded zucchini.

4. Add the flour and mix gently with a spatula just until combined. Do not overmix.

5. 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.

6. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 more minutes.

7. Slice with a serrated knife into 12 pieces and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 slices.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour

• Cooling time: 1 hour

• Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or replace with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

• Extra Sweet: Add 1/4 cup of raisins or chocolate chips.

• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.

• Citrus Zucchini Bread: Stir in 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for brightness.

• Whole Grain Blend: Use half whole wheat flour and half oat flour (as some readers have done with success).

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep covered or in a resealable bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Freeze: Place slices or the whole loaf in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Thaw: Let thaw at room temperature for 3–4 hours.

• Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Do I need to squeeze the zucchini?

No, use it packed and unsqueezed. The moisture helps keep the bread soft and moist.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

You can try using 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, but the results may vary slightly in texture.

Will gluten-free flour work in this recipe?

A gluten-free blend may make the bread dry if used 1:1. It’s not recommended without testing.

Can I use almond or coconut flour instead?

No, these flours behave very differently and won’t work as substitutes in this recipe.

Can I make this bread vegan?

You could try replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), but results may vary.

Can I reduce the sweetener?

You may reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly, but it will affect flavor and texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s lightly sweetened, full of nutrients, and a great way to sneak in veggies.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, bake in a muffin tin at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

Why is my bread gummy in the middle?

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately, don’t overmix, and allow it to bake fully until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit?

Yes! Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Healthy Zucchini Bread is a perfect balance of nutrition and comfort. Moist, gently sweetened, and easy to make, it’s a smart way to use up extra zucchini while enjoying a wholesome snack or breakfast. Whether you’re baking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

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