Decadent Chocolate Zucchini Loaf
This Decadent Chocolate Zucchini Loaf is the ultimate combination of rich chocolate flavor and moist, delightful zucchini. Created over two decades ago through a joyful collaboration with a dear friend, this recipe has stood the test of time. Each slice is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of sugars, the crunch of nuts, and the chewiness of raisins, making it a favorite among family and friends. Plus, it's an excellent way to sneak some healthy zucchini into your dessert! These loaves freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead treat for gatherings or simply to indulge on your own. Get ready to savor every bite and maybe even share the love with others!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
eggs
3 (beaten)
white sugar
1 cup (none)
brown sugar
1 cup (none)
oil
1 cup (none)
maple extract
3 teaspoons (none)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
zucchini
2 cups (grated, seeds removed)
flour
3 cups (none)
baking powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
baking soda
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
cocoa powder
1/2 cup (none)
nuts
1 cup (chopped)
raisins
1 cup (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare two 8 x 4 inch loaf pans by greasing them lightly.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, oil, maple extract, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended.
3
Fold in the grated zucchini, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, then set this mixture aside.
4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
5
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the zucchini mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
6
Gently fold in the chopped nuts and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
7
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops if needed.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9
Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Chocolate Zucchini Loaf?
It is a rich and moist chocolate bread that combines the sweetness of sugars, the crunch of nuts, and the chewiness of raisins with healthy zucchini.
How many loaves does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make two loaves.
What size loaf pans are needed?
You should use two 8 x 4 inch loaf pans for this recipe.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 163 degrees Celsius.
How should I prepare the zucchini?
The zucchini should be grated with the seeds removed, totaling 2 cups.
Can the Decadent Chocolate Zucchini Loaf be frozen?
Yes, these loaves freeze beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead treat.
How long does it take to bake?
The loaves take approximately 75 minutes to bake.
How do I know when the loaf is finished baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
What kind of extracts are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses both maple extract and vanilla extract for a unique flavor profile.
How much maple extract is required?
The recipe calls for 3 teaspoons of maple extract.
Is there vanilla extract in the recipe?
Yes, include 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
What types of sugar are used?
The recipe requires 1 cup of white sugar and 1 cup of brown sugar.
How many eggs are needed for the batter?
You will need 3 beaten eggs.
What type of oil is used?
The recipe uses 1 cup of oil to ensure the loaf is moist.
How much flour is required?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of flour.
How much cocoa powder should I add?
Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
What leavening agents are used?
The recipe uses both 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
Is salt included in the ingredients?
Yes, the recipe requires 1 teaspoon of salt.
Are there nuts in this chocolate zucchini loaf?
Yes, it includes 1 cup of chopped nuts for crunch.
Do I need to add raisins?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of raisins for extra chewiness.
How should I prepare the loaf pans?
Prepare the pans by greasing them lightly.
What is the first step in mixing the batter?
Combine the beaten eggs, sugars, oil, and extracts in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.
When do I add the zucchini?
Fold in the grated zucchini after the wet ingredients and sugars are well blended.
Should I whisk the dry ingredients separately?
Yes, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder together in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet mixture.
How should I combine the dry and wet ingredients?
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the zucchini mixture and stir until just combined.
Why should I be careful not to overmix?
Overmixing can affect the texture of the bread, making it less tender.
How long should the loaves cool in the pans?
Let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 to 15 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.
Is this recipe good for groups?
Yes, it is great for gatherings and large groups since it makes two loaves.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 14 ingredients in total.
Can I see the zucchini in the finished loaf?
The zucchini is mostly hidden by the dark chocolate cocoa, making it a great way to sneak vegetables into dessert.