This moist apple zucchini bread is a sweet treat you’ll love! It’s packed with fresh apples and zucchini, making it both delicious and a little healthier.
Baking this bread fills my kitchen with a warm, cozy smell. I like to slice it up and enjoy it with a cup of tea. Perfect for breakfast or a snack! 🍏💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This flour is great for bread as it provides a nice structure. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend can work well, but it may change the texture a bit.
Zucchini: Shredded zucchini brings moisture. If you’re in a pinch, you could use shredded carrots as a substitute, but remember they have a different flavor!
Apples: Grated apples add a fruity flavor. I like using Granny Smith for tartness, but any baking apple will do. You could also try pears for a twist.
Eggs: If you’re vegan or allergic, flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) are a good substitute that helps bind the bread.
Nuts: I love adding walnuts or pecans, but you can leave them out or swap for chocolate chips for a different flavor.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Moisture Balance?
The key to that perfect moist texture is in how you handle the zucchini and apples. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded zucchini using a clean kitchen towel. This helps to prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a towel. Twist the towel to remove excess liquid.
- When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing adds air and can make the bread dense.
- Let it cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to wire racks. This helps keep the moisture inside.
Moist Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, unpeeled)
- 1 cup peeled, grated apple (about 1 medium apple)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 60-65 minutes to bake. After baking, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Overall, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy this delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your bread bakes evenly. Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps evenly distribute the leavening and spices, leading to a flavorful bread.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until they become light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Then, mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can make the bread dense.
5. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, fold in the shredded zucchini, grated apple, and any nuts you want to include. These ingredients add moisture and flavor, making the bread truly delicious.
6. Pour into the Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This helps the bread bake evenly.
7. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready!
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is vital to keep your bread moist and to prevent it from getting soggy.
Enjoy your moist, flavorful apple zucchini bread! It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Happy baking!
FAQ for Moist Apple Zucchini Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! Just note that the bread might be denser and have a nuttier flavor. You may also want to reduce the flour by a couple of tablespoons to maintain moisture.
What Should I Do If My Zucchini is Very Watery?
If your zucchini is especially watery, it’s best to squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the batter. Use a clean kitchen towel to twist and wring out the liquid, ensuring your bread doesn’t become soggy.
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add other fruits like mashed bananas or shredded carrots. Additionally, a pinch of ginger or cloves can complement the flavors nicely. Just keep the ratios in balance!
