healthy zucchini bread
This healthy zucchini bread is a moist, flavorful treat made with whole wheat flour, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh zucchini. It’s a nutritious option for breakfast or a snack, and it's easily customizable to suit your dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures even baking from the start.
Prepare your baking pan
- Grease a loaf pan (9x5 inches) with a light coating of olive oil or line it with parchment paper. This helps the bread come out easily after baking.
Combine the dry ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined to avoid clumps in the batter.
Mix the wet ingredients
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and honey together until smooth. Add the unsweetened applesauce, olive oil, and vanilla extract, and mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
Add the zucchini
- Grate your zucchini (no need to peel it) and use a clean towel or paper towel to squeeze out any excess moisture. Add the grated zucchini to the wet ingredients and stir it in.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to denser bread.
Pour and bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool before serving
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows it to firm up and makes it easier to slice.