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Amazing 15 Minute Easy Zucchini Bread

Easy Zucchini Bread

Easy Zucchini Bread is the answer when you need a delicious, moist treat without waiting for yeast to rise! Hi there, I’m Anna Kowalska, and here I share tried-and-true homemade recipes that you and your family will love—everything is made with heart and flavor. If you’re looking for that perfect sweet bread that uses up garden bounty or just needs a quick fix for a craving, this recipe is your new best friend. You get incredible flavor and moisture with almost zero fuss.

Easy Zucchini Bread - detail 1

Seriously, this quick bread comes together so fast, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to try it. We’re talking about mixing up a full loaf in about fifteen minutes before it even heads into the oven. This Easy Zucchini Bread is consistently moist, perfectly spiced with cinnamon, and the best way to sneak a vegetable into dessert without anyone batting an eye!

Why You Will Love This Easy Zucchini Bread

This recipe isn’t just another quick bread recipe; it’s reliable and packed with flavor thanks to a few simple secrets. Trust me, once you try it this way, you won’t go back to any other version.

  • It bakes up incredibly moist every single time thanks to the fresh zucchini.
  • The prep time is lightning fast—you can have the batter ready in under 15 minutes!
  • It uses basic pantry staples; no fancy ingredients needed here.
  • The warm hint of cinnamon makes this Easy Zucchini Bread taste like comfort.

Quick Preparation Time for Easy Zucchini Bread

The best part about this Easy Zucchini Bread is that the active prep time clocks in at just 15 minutes. That means you can whip this up before work, during nap time, or even while dinner is simmering on the stove. It’s the definition of a quick bake!

Simple Ingredient List

You won’t need to run to a specialty store for this one. Every ingredient is something you probably already have or can grab at any standard grocery store. It’s proof that the best recipes are often the simplest ones!

Essential Equipment for Making Easy Zucchini Bread

To make your baking experience smooth and ensure that perfect loaf comes out, having the right tools handy makes all the difference. Don’t worry, you probably own everything you need for this Easy Zucchini Bread!

Necessary Baking Pans

You’ll need one standard 9×5 inch loaf pan. Make sure it’s well-greased before you pour in that beautiful batter!

Mixing and Measuring Tools

Grab a couple of mixing bowls—one large for the dry stuff and one medium for the wet ingredients. You’ll also need your measuring cups, spoons, and a good whisk to start things off.

Gathering Ingredients for Easy Zucchini Bread

Getting your ingredients ready first—what we call *mise en place*—is the secret to keeping the prep time for this Easy Zucchini Bread so low. Remember, we are using fresh zucchini, and we aren’t draining it. That moisture is our friend!

Dry Components

We start with the foundational dry ingredients. We use all-purpose flour, of course, but the star spice here is cinnamon. Make sure your baking soda is fresh, as that’s what gives this quick bread its lift!

Wet Components and Zucchini

The wet side is simple: oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Then comes the star: two cups of grated zucchini. And here’s the key—do not peel the zucchini, and definitely do not squeeze out the liquid! That liquid is what keeps this bread moist for days.

Ingredient Table

Here is the full list laid out so you can check your pantry easily:

Component Amount
All-purpose flour 1 & 3/4 cups (220g)
Ground cinnamon 2 tsp
Baking soda 1 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Vegetable oil 1/2 cup (125ml)
Granulated sugar 1 cup (200g)
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Grated zucchini (unpeeled, undrained) 2 cups (about 1 medium)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Zucchini Bread

This is where the magic happens! Follow these steps closely, especially when mixing, and you’ll have the best Easy Zucchini Bread ready for your cooling rack. Everything is straightforward, I promise.

Initial Preparations

First things first: get your oven warmed up. Preheat it to 350F. While that’s heating, take a moment to grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan really well. A good layer of butter or cooking spray prevents sticking later, which is always a headache.

Combining Dry and Wet Mixtures

In your large bowl, whisk together your flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until they look uniform. Set that aside. Now, in the medium bowl, whisk the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until they are well combined. Once that’s smooth, stir in those two cups of grated zucchini right into the wet mixture.

Final Batter Assembly and Baking

Now, pour that lovely, green-flecked wet mixture right into the dry ingredients. You only need to stir until everything is just combined. I mean it—stop mixing as soon as you don’t see streaks of dry flour anymore! Overmixing is the enemy of tender quick bread. Spoon the batter into your prepared pan. Bake this beauty for 60 to 65 minutes. To check if your Easy Zucchini Bread is done, insert a toothpick into the very center. If it comes out clean, you’re golden. If it has wet batter, give it five more minutes and check again.

Easy Zucchini Bread - detail 2

Tips for Perfect Easy Zucchini Bread

I’ve made this loaf dozens of times, and I’ve learned a few things that keep this Easy Zucchini Bread from turning out dense or dry. Pay close attention to these few details, and you’ll be rewarded!

Avoiding Overmixing

This is my number one rule for any quick bread! When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, you are developing gluten. Stirring too much makes the gluten strong, resulting in a tough, chewy bread instead of a tender crumb. Mix minimally—just until the flour disappears. A few lumps are fine, honestly.

Correct Zucchini Measurement and Preparation

Don’t eyeball the zucchini amount! Two packed cups is what you need for the right moisture balance. And please, don’t peel it! The skin adds color and a little extra texture that you actually want in the finished bread.

Adjustments and Ingredient Swaps

I know sometimes you run out of something, or maybe you just want to try a different flavor profile. This recipe is super flexible, which is why I love it so much for everyday baking. You can easily customize your Easy Zucchini Bread!

Flour and Oil Substitutions

If you want to go whole grain, feel free to swap in some whole wheat flour, or use a 50/50 blend with your regular all-purpose flour. When it comes to fat, if you don’t have vegetable oil, melted butter works wonderfully, or you can even use avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.

Sugar and Spice Variations

If you prefer a deeper, molasses flavor, swap out the white sugar for brown sugar or even coconut sugar. For spices, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a little bit of that cinnamon out and drop in a dash of nutmeg or ground cloves. It gives the bread a completely different, cozy aroma!

Storing Your Homemade Easy Zucchini Bread

The great thing about quick breads is how well they keep! You don’t want to waste any of this delicious Easy Zucchini Bread, so here are my favorite ways to store it to keep it fresh.

Room Temperature and Refrigeration Guidelines

If you plan on eating it quickly, just wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and leave it on the counter. It stays good for two to three days that way. If you need it to last longer, the fridge is your friend, stretching the freshness to about five days.

Freezing Instructions

If you bake two loaves (which you should!), freezing is easy. Wrap the cooled bread tightly twice—once in plastic wrap and then maybe foil over that. When you’re ready to eat it, just pull it out the night before and let it thaw slowly on the counter.

Storage Time Table

Storage Location Approximate Duration
Room Temperature 2 to 3 days
Refrigerator Up to 5 days
Freezer Several months (double wrapped)

Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Breads

I get so many questions about quick breads in general, so I thought I’d answer a few common ones right here for you!

Can I use shredded zucchini without peeling?

Absolutely you can! In fact, I highly recommend you don’t peel it. The skin blends right into the bread and adds a little bit of beneficial color and texture without affecting the taste.

What is the difference between quick bread and yeast bread?

The big difference is the leavening! Yeast breads rely on yeast to rise slowly over hours. Quick breads, like this zucchini loaf, use chemical leaveners like baking soda or baking powder to rise quickly when they hit the heat of the oven. Understanding the science behind chemical leavening agents is key to mastering quick breads.

How do I know if my Easy Zucchini Bread is fully baked?

The toothpick test is your best friend here. Insert a wooden toothpick deep into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, it’s done! If it’s wet, it needs more time in the oven.

Easy Zucchini Bread - detail 3

Sharing Your Easy Zucchini Bread Creations

I hope this recipe brings as much joy and delicious aroma to your kitchen as it does to mine! If you make this Easy Zucchini Bread, please leave me a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or drop a rating! I love hearing from you all.

Why You Will Love This Easy Zucchini Bread

This recipe isn’t just another quick bread recipe; it’s reliable and packed with flavor thanks to a few simple secrets. Trust me, once you try it this way, you won’t go back to any other version.

  • It bakes up incredibly moist every single time thanks to the fresh zucchini.
  • The prep time is lightning fast—you can have the batter ready in under 15 minutes!
  • It uses basic pantry staples; no fancy ingredients needed here.
  • The warm hint of cinnamon makes this Easy Zucchini Bread taste like comfort.

Quick Preparation Time for Easy Zucchini Bread

The best part about this Easy Zucchini Bread is that the active prep time clocks in at just 15 minutes. That means you can whip this up before work, during nap time, or even while dinner is simmering on the stove. It’s the definition of a quick bake!

Simple Ingredient List

You won’t need to run to a specialty store for this one. Every ingredient is something you probably already have or can grab at any standard grocery store. It’s proof that the best recipes are often the simplest ones!

Essential Equipment for Making Easy Zucchini Bread

To make your baking experience smooth and ensure that perfect loaf comes out, having the right tools handy makes all the difference. Don’t worry, you probably own everything you need for this Easy Zucchini Bread!

Necessary Baking Pans

You’ll need one standard 9×5 inch loaf pan. Make sure it’s well-greased before you pour in that beautiful batter!

Mixing and Measuring Tools

Grab a couple of mixing bowls—one large for the dry stuff and one medium for the wet ingredients. You’ll also need your measuring cups, spoons, and a good whisk to start things off.

Gathering Ingredients for Easy Zucchini Bread

Getting your ingredients ready first—what we call *mise en place*—is the secret to keeping the prep time for this Easy Zucchini Bread so low. Remember, we are using fresh zucchini, and we aren’t draining it. That moisture is our friend!

Dry Components

We start with the foundational dry ingredients. We use all-purpose flour, of course, but the star spice here is cinnamon. Make sure your baking soda is fresh, as that’s what gives this quick bread its lift!

Wet Components and Zucchini

The wet side is simple: oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Then comes the star: two cups of grated zucchini. And here’s the key—do not peel the zucchini, and definitely do not squeeze out the liquid! That liquid is what keeps this bread moist for days.

Ingredient Table

Here is the full list laid out so you can check your pantry easily:

Component Amount
All-purpose flour 1 & 3/4 cups (220g)
Ground cinnamon 2 tsp
Baking soda 1 tsp
Salt 1/2 tsp
Vegetable oil 1/2 cup (125ml)
Granulated sugar 1 cup (200g)
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Grated zucchini (unpeeled, undrained) 2 cups (about 1 medium)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Zucchini Bread

This is the part where we turn those lovely ingredients into the most scrumptious Easy Zucchini Bread you’ve ever tasted! Don’t rush the process, but don’t dawdle either. I like to get my oven going first so it’s perfectly hot when the batter is ready.

Initial Preparations

Grab your oven rack and make sure it’s sitting in the middle position. Then, set your oven to preheat to 350F. While that’s warming up, take your 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it thoroughly. I mean really get into the corners! A little extra butter or baking spray here saves you so much heartache later when you try to remove the bread.

Combining Dry and Wet Mixtures

We handle the dry and wet ingredients separately to ensure everything incorporates smoothly. In your larger bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. You want this mixed well so those little pockets of leavening agent are evenly distributed. Set that bowl aside for now.

Now, switch to your medium bowl. Whisk the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract together until they look nicely blended. Don’t worry about getting it super fluffy; just make sure the eggs are broken up. Next, stir in your two cups of grated zucchini right into this wet mixture. It will look very wet, and that’s exactly what we want for this Easy Zucchini Bread!

Final Batter Assembly and Baking

Time to bring them together! Pour the entire wet, zucchini-filled mixture directly into the bowl holding your dry ingredients. Now, take your spoon or spatula and gently fold everything together. You are aiming for *just* combined. Stop stirring the second you don’t see any more white streaks of flour. If you overmix here, I guarantee a tough loaf, so be gentle!

Spoon that thick batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top a bit if you like, but don’t press it down. Pop it into the preheated 350F oven. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes. Start checking around the 60-minute mark using the toothpick test—a clean toothpick coming out of the center means your Easy Zucchini Bread is ready to cool!

Tips for Perfect Easy Zucchini Bread

Even though this is an easy recipe, a couple of small things can totally change how your loaf turns out. I’ve made mountains of this bread over the years, and I’ve figured out the little tricks that guarantee you get that soft, flavorful crumb every time you make this Easy Zucchini Bread.

Avoiding Overmixing

I could shout this from the rooftops! Overmixing is the number one mistake people make with quick breads. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, you activate the gluten in the flour. If you stir too much, that gluten gets tough, and your bread turns out dense and chewy, almost like rubber. You want to stop stirring the moment the flour streaks disappear. Seriously, if you see a tiny bit of flour left, just stop. It will mix in when you fold in the zucchini anyway!

Correct Zucchini Measurement and Preparation

Remember those two cups of zucchini? Measure them after you grate them, but before you do anything else. And this is crucial for moisture: do not squeeze the water out! We want that liquid. The zucchini releases its moisture slowly during the hour it bakes, which keeps your Easy Zucchini Bread tasting fresh for days. Peeling is optional, but leaving the skin on adds nice flecks of color!

Adjustments and Ingredient Swaps

I know sometimes you run out of something, or maybe you just want to try a different flavor profile. This recipe is super flexible, which is why I love it so much for everyday baking. You can easily customize your Easy Zucchini Bread!

Flour and Oil Substitutions

If you want to go whole grain, feel free to swap in some whole wheat flour, or use a 50/50 blend with your regular all-purpose flour. Now, for the fat, if you don’t have the standard vegetable oil, melted butter works wonderfully; it adds a lovely richness. You can also use avocado oil or even a light olive oil if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure any butter you use is melted and cooled slightly!

Sugar and Spice Variations

If you prefer a deeper, molasses flavor, swap out the white sugar for brown sugar or even coconut sugar. Those options give the bread a slightly richer, almost caramel note that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. For spices, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a little bit of that cinnamon out and drop in a dash of nutmeg or ground cloves. It gives the bread a completely different, cozy aroma!

Storing Your Homemade Easy Zucchini Bread

The great thing about quick breads is how well they keep! You don’t want to waste any of this delicious Easy Zucchini Bread, so here are my favorite ways to store it to keep it fresh and moist.

Room Temperature and Refrigeration Guidelines

If you plan on eating it quickly, just wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and leave it on the counter. It stays good for two to three days that way. If you need it to last longer, the fridge is your friend, stretching the freshness to about five days.

Freezing Instructions

If you bake two loaves (which you should!), freezing is easy. Wrap the cooled bread tightly twice—once in plastic wrap and then maybe foil over that. When you’re ready to eat it, just pull it out the night before and let it thaw slowly on the counter. It’s like getting fresh bread all over again!

Storage Time Table

Storage Location Approximate Duration
Room Temperature 2 to 3 days
Refrigerator Up to 5 days
Freezer Several months (double wrapped)

Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Breads

I get so many questions about quick breads in general, so I thought I’d answer a few common ones right here for you! People often wonder about the zucchini prep or what makes this kind of bread different from the sourdough they tried last week.

Can I use shredded zucchini without peeling?

Absolutely you can! In fact, I highly recommend you don’t peel it. The skin blends right into the bread and adds a little bit of beneficial color and texture without affecting the taste. It saves you time and keeps that wonderful moisture locked in!

What is the difference between quick bread and yeast bread?

The big difference is the leavening! Yeast breads rely on yeast to rise slowly over hours, giving them that stretchy gluten network. Quick breads, like this zucchini loaf, use chemical leaveners like baking soda or baking powder to rise quickly when they hit the heat of the oven. That’s why they mix up so fast! For more on the role of yeast in baking, check out this resource.

How do I know if my loaf is fully baked?

The toothpick test is your best friend here. Insert a wooden toothpick deep into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, it’s done! If it’s wet, it needs more time in the oven. Always check the center, as that’s the last spot to cook through.

Sharing Your Easy Zucchini Bread Creations

I truly hope this recipe for Easy Zucchini Bread becomes a staple in your home just like it is in mine! It’s such a satisfying bake. When you pull that warm, fragrant loaf out of the oven, I want to hear all about it! Please drop a comment below or leave a rating so I know how it worked out for you!

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Easy Zucchini Bread

Amazing 15 Minute Easy Zucchini Bread


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  • Author: anna kowalska
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This is a simple recipe for moist and flavorful zucchini bread. You can make this quick bread using basic pantry staples and fresh zucchini.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 & 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (125ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (1 medium) grated zucchini (do not peel or drain)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract together.
  4. Stir the grated zucchini into the wet mixture.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until the ingredients combine. Do not overmix.
  6. Spoon the batter into your prepared baking pan.
  7. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Notes

  • Store zucchini bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • To freeze, double wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or foil. Thaw overnight on the counter before serving.
  • You can add 1 cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or berries as variations.
  • For flour substitution: use whole wheat flour or half whole wheat/half AP flour. If using self-rising flour, omit the salt and use only 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
  • For oil substitution: use melted unsalted butter, avocado oil, EV olive oil, canola, or safflower oil.
  • For sugar substitution: use brown sugar, coconut sugar, or maple sugar (not syrup) for all or half the amount.
  • For spice substitution: replace some cinnamon with nutmeg, cloves, or your preferred spice blend.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Quick Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 227kcal
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 201mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 27mg

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